Ugly Duckling Pudding Cake Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the culinary journey that is the Ugly Duckling Pudding Cake, a dessert that combines simplicity with a burst of vibrant flavors, creating an irresistible treat fit for any occasion. This recipe, sourced from the beloved archives of Love With Recipes, exemplifies how humble ingredients can be transformed into a decadent masterpiece with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The name might evoke curiosity, but once you experience its moist, tender crumb soaked in luscious glaze, you’ll realize that this cake is anything but ugly. Instead, it’s a beautifully layered dessert that satisfies both the eye and the palate, offering a harmonious blend of citrusy freshness, coconut richness, and sweet caramel notes. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this pudding cake is a testament to the magic of straightforward baking with extraordinary results.

Time

• Preparation Time: 0 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour

While the preparation is swift, the baking process requires patience to develop the perfect moist texture and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The cooling and glazing stages further enhance its appeal, making this a well-timed culinary project that yields impressive results.

Needed Equipment

• 9 x 13-inch rectangular baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Saucepan for glaze preparation
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Oven mitts
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing
• Toothpick or cake tester
• Ladle or spoon for pouring glaze

Tags

dessert, pudding cake, coconut, lemon, quick bake, easy recipe, family favorite, baked goods, sweet treats, glazed cake

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 12 generous servings, making it ideal for sharing among family and friends. Each slice is a delightful combination of moist cake with a luscious glaze, perfect for ending a meal or enjoying with afternoon tea.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — While the ingredients are straightforward, achieving the perfect moist texture and even glazing requires attention to detail, especially in mixing and baking times. However, with clear instructions, even novice bakers can master this delightful dessert.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets due to the presence of eggs, butter, and evaporated milk. However, modifications can be explored for gluten-free and dairy-free options by substituting ingredients accordingly.

Course

Dessert, after-meal treat, sweet course

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cake evenly and ensuring a moist, tender crumb. While the oven heats, thoroughly grease your 9 x 13-inch baking pan using butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding mix, 1 cup of shredded coconut, eggs, brown sugar, butter, sugar, and the additional 1/2 cup of shredded coconut. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend these ingredients thoroughly. Beat the mixture for approximately 4 minutes. This process incorporates air, which helps develop a tender texture, and ensures that the flavors are well combined.

Step 2: Pouring and Preparing for Baking

Once the batter is smooth and homogeneous, pour it into the prepared baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan’s surface, ensuring uniform thickness for consistent baking. Before placing the pan in the oven, sprinkle a layer of brown sugar over the top of the batter. If desired, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. It’s essential to keep an eye on the cake towards the end of baking to prevent overbaking. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The edges should be lightly golden, and the top might appear slightly risen and caramelized.

Step 4: Cooling and Glazing

After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the cake set, making it easier to handle and preventing the glaze from sliding off. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze.

In a small saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, remaining shredded coconut, and additional brown sugar if desired for extra richness. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for 2 minutes to develop a smooth, glossy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Applying the Glaze and Serving

Pour the warm glaze evenly over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the moist crumb. Use a spoon or ladle to spread the glaze gently over the surface, ensuring every inch is coated with the luscious mixture. The glaze will seep into the cake, enhancing its moistness and adding a delightful sweetness.

Allow the glazed cake to rest for at least 10 minutes to let the glaze set. Slice into individual servings and serve either warm or at room temperature. For added presentation, garnish with extra shredded coconut, whipped cream, or fresh fruit as desired.

Preparation Tips

• Ingredient Quality: Use fresh eggs and high-quality shredded coconut for the best flavor and texture.
• Mixing Technique: Be sure to beat the batter sufficiently to incorporate air, which results in a lighter cake.
• Even Baking: Spread the batter evenly in the pan to ensure uniform baking and prevent undercooked sections.
• Glaze Temperature: Keep the glaze warm but not boiling hot when pouring to prevent cracking or uneven coating.
• Cooling Time: Patience during cooling allows the cake to set properly, making slicing cleaner and easier.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
• Nuts and Fruits: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze Customization: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the glaze for extra sweetness and depth.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Add-ons

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) for garnish
• Chocolate shavings or chips sprinkled on top
• Custard or vanilla bean ice cream served alongside
• Toasted coconut flakes as a crunchy topping

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness
• Light citrus sorbet to refresh the palate
• Vanilla or lemon-flavored yogurt to complement the flavors
• Herbed whipped cream for a savory twist

Improvements and Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free pudding mix and ensure coconut is certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based butter and milk.

Save and Store

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will absorb the glaze, becoming even more moist and flavorful over time. For best results, reheat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave. Note that the texture may slightly change after freezing, but the flavor remains delightful.

FAQ

Can I skip the glaze?

While the glaze adds a beautiful shine and extra sweetness, the cake is delicious even without it. For a lighter version, serve it plain or dust with powdered sugar.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the cake can be baked and glazed a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and reheat slightly before serving if desired. The flavors tend to meld better after resting.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the pudding mix with a gluten-free alternative and double-check all ingredients for gluten content, especially shredded coconut and nuts.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the edges should be slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan. The top will be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Conclusion

The Ugly Duckling Pudding Cake stands as a testament to how simple ingredients can be combined to produce an indulgent, flavorful dessert that delights every palate. Its moist, tender crumb soaked in a luscious glaze offers a symphony of textures and flavors, from the bright citrus notes of lemon pudding to the rich coconut undertones. This recipe’s ease and speed make it an excellent choice for busy households or last-minute gatherings, promising impressive results with minimal fuss. Whether served warm with whipped cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, this cake exemplifies comfort and elegance in every bite. Remember, at Love With Recipes, we believe that great baking begins with quality ingredients and a passion for creating memorable moments through food. So gather your supplies, follow these detailed instructions, and indulge in the magic of this extraordinary pudding cake.

References

1. “Classic Pudding Cakes,” *Baking Illustrated*, 2020.

2. “Coconut and Citrus Desserts,” *The Art of Baking*, 2018.