Zuppa Inglese
Zuppa Inglese is a luscious Italian-inspired layered dessert with coffee, vanilla, and rum flavors, topped with shaved chocolate—perfect for special occasions and sophisticated sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
- Pour the batter into two greased and floured round cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely.
- Prepare both packages of vanilla pudding mix using half the milk called for on the package.
- Cover and chill the pudding until set.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture.
- Divide the combined pudding and cream mixture in half and set aside.
- Stir instant coffee granules into hot water and cool the mixture.
- Fold the cooled coffee mixture into one half of the pudding and cream mixture.
- Split each cake layer horizontally to create four layers.
- Place the bottom cake layer on a serving plate and brush with 1 tablespoon of rum.
- Spread half of the coffee-flavored pudding over the rum-brushed layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and brush with 1 tablespoon of rum.
- Spread about a quarter of the plain pudding over the layer.
- Add the third cake layer and brush with 1 tablespoon of rum.
- Spread the remaining coffee pudding over this layer.
- Add the fourth cake layer and brush with 1 tablespoon of rum.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining plain pudding.
- Sprinkle shaved chocolate over the top.
- Cover and chill the assembled dessert before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the whipping cream with a low-fat alternative or use Greek yogurt in the pudding mixture. If you don't have rum, any flavored extract like almond or vanilla can work as a substitute. Make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the pudding from melting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Zuppa Inglese chilled, garnished with shaved chocolate or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or espresso, making it a perfect end to an Italian meal. For an even more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Zuppa Inglese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. If you want to refresh the cake before serving, consider adding a little more whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder on top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zuppa Inglese contains roughly 231 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of iron (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 pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pudding mix, such as chocolate or butterscotch, to create a unique twist on this classic dessert. Just ensure the flavor complements the coffee and rum for a balanced taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Zuppa Inglese gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that your pudding mixes are also gluten-free. Check labels to verify that all ingredients meet gluten-free standards.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Zuppa Inglese can be made a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it well, and let it chill in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
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).