Lesby'S Surprise Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Lesby'S Surprise Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert combining yellow cake with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, topped with chopped nuts. Its delightful surprise center makes it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a comforting treat with a nutty crunch and aromatic spice.

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Ingredients

  • 1 yellow cake mix
  • 1 small vanilla instant pudding
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon butter flavoring
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle the mixture (brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts) over the bottom layer in the pan.
  2. Add the remaining half of the batter on top.
  3. Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
  4. Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes in the pan.
  5. Turn out of the pan and cool completely before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix if needed. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating a tablespoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Granny'S Blackberry Pudding for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Lesby'S Surprise Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore its moist texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lesby'S Surprise Cake contains roughly 1084 calories, with 8g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 479mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

1084 kcal 54% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8g 16% DV
Total Fat 48.7g 62% DV
Carbs 142.5g 52% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 59.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 478.6mg 21% DV
Potassium 518.8mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 122.5mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30.3mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 288.5mg 22% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 a different flavor of pudding mix?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as chocolate or butterscotch, to create a unique twist on this cake. Just ensure the mix complements the other flavors for the best results.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you don't have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar can be a good substitute for a more natural option.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

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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