Plain Pudding Cake
A moist, citrus-flavored pudding cake with a tender crumb, ideal for dessert gatherings or teatime, combining lemon and orange zest with a soft cake texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding, and water until well combined.
- Add eggs and oil, beating continuously until smooth.
- Beat the mixture for 3 minutes.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased tube pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour.
- Remove the cake from the pan and prepare a mixture of sugar and juice.
- Spoon the sugar and juice mixture over the hot cake before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps, and consider using a bundt pan for a more decorative presentation. This cake is versatile; you can experiment by adding zest from lemons or oranges for an extra citrus burst.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pudding cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh berries or a light fruit salad. For a festive touch, drizzle some additional orange or lemon juice over the top before serving, enhancing its citrus flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Pudding Cake contains roughly 675 calories, with 7g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
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, you can experiment with various flavors of instant pudding mix, such as vanilla or chocolate, to create a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor will significantly alter the final outcome, so choose a flavor that complements the citrus ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check that the instant pudding mix is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten ingredients.
How can I make the cake more visually appealing?
To enhance the visual appeal, consider adding a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and citrus juice on top of the cooled cake. You can also garnish with fresh fruit or edible flowers, making it a stunning centerpiece for gatherings or special occasions.
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).