Bavarian Festival Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A rich, layered dessert featuring a nutty crust, creamy cheese topping, and chocolate pudding, perfect for festive gatherings and chocolate lovers seeking a delightful treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 1 stick butter, softened
  • 1 (8 oz.) soft cream cheese
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 2 (8 oz.) cartons whipped dessert topping, divided
  • 3 cups milk
  • 2 (3.5 oz.) packages instant chocolate pudding mix

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, chopped nuts, and softened butter; mix thoroughly.
  2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
  4. Allow the crust to cool on a wire rack.

Tips & Substitutions

For a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with rolled oats or additional flour. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a sweeter cake, increase the confectioners' sugar. This recipe can also be made with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as vanilla or butterscotch, for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bavarian Festival Cake chilled, topped with additional whipped dessert topping for a delightful finish. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake is a great addition to any gathering, complementing savory dishes like Artichokes Au Gratin or even as a sweet treat alongside coffee.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy the cake later, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bavarian Festival Cake contains roughly 2357 calories, with 25g protein, 334g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (78% of the Daily Value), calcium (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1011mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

2357 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 25.1g 50% DV
Total Fat 105.2g 100% DV
Carbs 334g 100% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 219.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1011.4mg 44% DV
Potassium 1074mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 217.2mg 72% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 550.1mcg 61% DV
Vitamin C 28.2mg 31% DV
Vitamin D 3.8mcg 19% DV
Calcium 905.2mg 70% DV
Iron 14mg 78% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten the recipe. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, resulting in a less rich flavor. Make sure to blend it well with the other ingredients for the best results.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the Bavarian Festival Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that is suitable for baking to ensure the best texture. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the pudding mix, are gluten-free.

What kind of nuts work best for this cake?

While chopped walnuts or pecans are traditional, you can use any type of nut that you enjoy, such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are finely chopped to mix well into the crust and add a nice crunch to the texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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