Who doesn't love the rich, creamy texture of a pudding paired with the moist, fluffy goodness of a cake? Cake pudding recipes offer the best of both worlds, providing an indulgence that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a sweet treat, here are five delicious cake pudding recipes you must try to satisfy your dessert cravings.
1. Chocolate Lava Cake Pudding
The Chocolate Lava Cake Pudding is the epitome of indulgence. Here’s how you can make this delightful dessert:
- 200g dark chocolate
- 200g unsalted butter
- 200g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 egg yolks
- 60g all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- A pinch of salt
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Melt the chocolate and butter together in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk eggs, yolks, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the chocolate mixture, then sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Pour into greased ramekins, bake for about 12 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still gooey.
- Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
🎈 Note: Be sure to not overbake; the cake should have a molten center for that perfect lava effect.
2. Banana Cream Cake Pudding
Combining the comforting flavors of banana with a custard-like pudding, this dessert is both nostalgic and gourmet. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (and ingredients listed on the box)
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 cups cold milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄4 cup powdered sugar
Steps:
- Prepare and bake the cake as per the box instructions, let it cool.
- Whisk pudding mix with milk, let sit until it thickens.
- In another bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Layer in a trifle dish or individual glasses: cake, banana slices, pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat layers.
- Garnish with more banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
🍌 Note: For an extra touch, try drizzling caramel over each layer for added flavor depth.
3. Lemon Sponge Cake with Berry Pudding
The light, zesty lemon sponge cake pairs beautifully with the sweet, tangy berry pudding, creating a refreshing dessert. Ingredients include:
- 175g sugar
- 175g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 175g self-raising flour
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 250g mixed berries (frozen or fresh)
- 1 packet of berry-flavored gelatin
- 300ml boiling water
Steps:
- Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the flour, lemon zest, and juice. Pour into a greased baking tin and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 25-30 minutes.
- Dissolve the gelatin in boiling water, add berries, and let it cool.
- Pour the berry mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Chill until set.
4. Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Chocolate Cake Crumble
This elegant dessert marries the creamy texture of panna cotta with the richness of chocolate cake. Here’s how:
- 500ml heavy cream
- 100ml milk
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 1 packet of gelatin
- 1⁄4 cup sugar
- Chocolate cake, crumbled (leftovers work great!)
Steps:
- Warm the cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla bean in a saucepan, then let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Remove the vanilla bean, add gelatin (dissolved in a little warm water), and stir until smooth.
- Pour into molds and let set in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Serve each panna cotta with a generous sprinkle of chocolate cake crumble.
5. Tapioca Pudding with Coffee Cake
Tapioca’s unique texture meets the aromatic flavors of coffee cake in this unusual yet irresistible pairing:
- 1⁄3 cup small pearl tapioca
- 3⁄4 cup milk
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄4 cup sugar
- 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract
- Coffee cake, cubed or crumbled
Steps:
- Soak tapioca in water for 1 hour, then drain.
- In a saucepan, bring milk, cream, sugar, and tapioca to a gentle boil, then simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove from heat, add vanilla, and let cool. Stir occasionally.
- Serve in individual bowls with coffee cake cubes or crumble on top.
The variety of textures and flavors in these cake pudding recipes offers something for everyone. Each recipe balances between the richness of cake and the smoothness of pudding, providing a dessert experience that's both comforting and sophisticated. Remember to experiment with different pairings, like trying different flavored cakes or puddings, to create your own unique twist. From the classic Chocolate Lava Cake Pudding to the innovative Tapioca Pudding with Coffee Cake, these desserts are sure to become new favorites in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the indulgence!
Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
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Yes, most of these recipes can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free flour blends or alternatives. For example, substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
How far in advance can I prepare these desserts?
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You can make many of these desserts a day in advance. Desserts like the Panna Cotta or Banana Cream Cake Pudding will set well overnight in the fridge. However, the Chocolate Lava Cake Pudding should be served immediately after baking.
What are some garnishing ideas for these puddings?
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Garnish options can include fresh fruits, edible flowers, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, nuts, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
Are these recipes suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
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With some modifications, these recipes can be adapted for lactose intolerance. Use lactose-free milk, plant-based cream like coconut cream, and replace butter with margarine or coconut oil where necessary.
How can I prevent my cake layers from becoming soggy in pudding?
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To avoid soggy layers, let the cake cool completely before layering with pudding. You can also line the pudding layers with a thin spread of cream or icing to act as a barrier. Assembling just before serving also helps.
