Vanilla cake pudding recipe is a rich and moist dessert made by combining French vanilla cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix.
This vanilla cake pudding recipe is often made in home kitchens during gatherings or family dinners. I first felt inspired to make vanilla cake pudding on a quiet Sunday afternoon when I wanted something warm and sweet.
Now I will explain to make vanilla cake pudding recipe using cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, butter, sour cream, oil, warm water, and vanilla extract.
Everything mixes in one bowl, then bakes into a soft, pudding-like texture that brings comfort in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
You will love this vanilla cake pudding recipe because it delivers a soft, moist texture and a rich vanilla flavor that stands out with minimal effort.
The ingredients work together to create a smooth, pudding-like cake that feels homemade and satisfying. It bakes evenly, holds moisture well, and serves beautifully whether warm or chilled.
The addition of sour cream and pudding mix gives it a depth that sets it apart from basic cakes. This dessert feels special without needing anything overly fancy or time-consuming.
How To Prepare Vanilla Cake Pudding Recipe?
To make sure this vanilla cake pudding recipe turns out just right, I’ve broken down each step in a simple way anyone can follow. You don’t need fancy tools just basic kitchen items will do the job.
I’ve also added helpful tips along the way so you feel confident baking it at home. Trust the process and enjoy the results!
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Bundt or rectangular baking pan
- Oven
- Wire cooling rack
- Sifter (for powdered sugar)
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 box (15.25 oz) French vanilla cake mix
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup warm water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How To Make Vanilla Cake Pudding Recipe
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’re using a rectangular pan, you can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix. Add the sour cream, eggs, warm water, oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix everything together using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk. Beat the batter for 2 to 3 minutes, until it’s smooth and thick with no lumps.
4. Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to get rid of any air bubbles.
5. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cooled, give it a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Baking Notes:
Using warm water helps the pudding mix dissolve more evenly, giving the cake a moist, custard-like texture. Do not overmix the batter once everything is combined and smooth, it’s ready to go into the pan.
This recipe is especially moist and rich due to the addition of sour cream and pudding, making it more like a cross between cake and pudding.
Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Cake Pudding Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 340mg |
Why My Recipe Works
My vanilla cake pudding recipe works because it combines the moisture of sour cream, the richness of pudding mix, and the structure of cake mix in perfect balance.
Melted butter adds flavor and tenderness, while the eggs help the cake set without becoming dry. Warm water helps dissolve the pudding mix smoothly, creating a soft and creamy texture throughout.
The ingredients blend well without overmixing, allowing the cake to rise evenly and bake with a moist, dense crumb. Each element has a purpose, and together they create a consistent, flavorful dessert that holds its shape and stays fresh longer.
My Favorite Ways To Serve Vanilla Cake Pudding
➤ With a Berry Compote: Warm up some mixed berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to make a quick compote. Spoon this over your cake pudding for a tangy, fruity contrast.
➤ Layered with Greek Yogurt and Honey: Cut the pudding into squares and layer with thick Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey in a bowl or glass for a creamy, slightly tangy dessert.
➤ Sprinkled with Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar over the warm pudding right after baking. The warm spice adds depth and a cozy flavor.
➤ Topped with Crushed Toffee or Butterscotch Bits: Add some crunch and buttery sweetness by topping your serving with crushed toffee pieces or butterscotch chips.
➤ Served with a Dollop of Mascarpone Cheese: A spoonful of mascarpone adds a rich, creamy texture and mild tang that pairs perfectly with the vanilla flavors.
Health Benefits
This vanilla cake pudding recipe includes ingredients that provide some nutrition. Sour cream adds calcium, which supports strong bones, and can aid digestion. Eggs supply protein and important vitamins like B12 and D.
Vegetable oil offers healthy fats that help the body absorb nutrients. This dessert combines flavor with ingredients that bring more nutrients than a typical cake.
The pudding mix helps keep the cake moist without extra sugar or fat. Overall, it’s a tasty treat that also contains some nourishing elements to enjoy.
Recipe Tips And Techniques
➢ Warm water helps dissolve the pudding mix faster and gives the batter a smoother texture, which results in a softer, more uniform cake.
➢ Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense or rubbery texture instead of the desired moist and tender crumb.
➢ Using ingredients at room temperature allows them to blend more evenly into the batter, improving the cake’s consistency and structure.
➢ Make sure the baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and ensure clean slices after baking.
➢ Allow the cake to rest for at least 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps it set properly and makes slicing cleaner and easier.
How To Store Leftovers
To keep leftover vanilla cake pudding recipe fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay moist and tasty for up to 4 days.
Before serving, you can warm individual slices briefly in the microwave if you prefer it soft and warm. Avoid leaving the cake out at room temperature for too long, as the dairy ingredients can spoil.
For longer storage, you can freeze the vanilla cake pudding recipe by wrapping it well in plastic and foil; thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
FAQs About Vanilla Cake Pudding Recipe
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other cake mix flavors like yellow, white, or even funfetti. However, the vanilla pudding mix pairs best with vanilla cake mix to keep the flavor balanced and classic. Other flavors might change the overall taste, but feel free to try what you like.
Do I have to use instant pudding mix?
Instant pudding mix is recommended because it dissolves quickly in the batter, helping create the moist, creamy texture that defines this cake pudding. Regular or cook-and-serve pudding won’t work as well and might affect the final consistency.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix. Just double-check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. This way, the recipe stays safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease without sacrificing taste.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
If sour cream isn’t available, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute since it provides similar creaminess and tang. Buttermilk can also work, though it might thin the batter slightly, so adjust accordingly. These alternatives maintain the moist texture and flavor.
How do I know when the cake pudding is done baking?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick or thin skewer into the center of the cake. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs sticking to it but no wet batter. The top should be lightly golden and spring back when touched gently. Overbaking can dry it out, so start checking around 40 minutes.
Conclusion
This was my easy process for making vanilla cake pudding recipe, and it turned out soft, moist, and full of flavor. I followed simple steps, used basic ingredients, and the result was a delicious dessert that everyone enjoyed.
I’m happy with the success and how smoothly everything came together. I hope you understand my method clearly and try making vanilla cake pudding recipe yourself soon.
Once you do, you will see how easy and satisfying vanilla cake pudding recipe is to create this sweet treat at home.
More Vanilla Cake Recipes You’ll Love
French Vanilla Cake Recipe [Bakery-Style]
Classic Vanilla Bean Cake Recipe
Vanilla Chiffon Cake Recipe [Moist and Airy]
Vanilla Mousse Cake Recipe | Layer Cake
Chiffon-Style Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe With Filling
Vanilla Cake Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’re using a rectangular pan, you can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix. Add the sour cream, eggs, warm water, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Mix everything together using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk. Beat the batter for 2 to 3 minutes, until it’s smooth and thick with no lumps.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to get rid of any air bubbles.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cooled, give it a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.