Mrs. Tathum'S Topped Cake
Mrs. Tathum's Topped Cake is a delightful layered dessert featuring a moist yellow cake base topped with creamy vanilla pudding and sweet, well-drained crushed pineapple. The addition of crunchy chopped walnuts adds texture, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks that crave a nostalgic, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make yellow cake according to package directions.
- Pour the batter into a 9 x 13-inch pan (or 15 x 10-inch pan).
- Bake the cake and allow it to cool completely.
- While the cake is baking, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add vanilla instant pudding and milk to the cream cheese.
- Beat at medium speed until the mixture is thickened.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well and spread it on top of the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate the cake before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can also work well. Ensure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy cake. Experiment with different flavors of pudding, like coconut or banana, for a unique twist. This cake is a great way to use leftover cake mix from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Tot Warner'S Egg Custard for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice a piece and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm. Avoid reheating the entire cake, as it may affect the texture of the pudding layer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Tathum'S Topped Cake contains roughly 305 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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 cake mix?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or lemon. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste of the cake, so choose a flavor that complements the pudding and pineapple well.
How long should I refrigerate the cake before serving?
Refrigerating the cake for at least 2 hours is recommended to allow the pudding to set properly and for the flavors to meld together. For the best taste and texture, consider refrigerating it overnight.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for parties. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve to maintain its freshness.
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).