Name: Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons cocoa (for batter); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 2 tablespoons melted shortening; 2 tablespoons cocoa (for topping); 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup whipped heavy cream

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There’s something undeniably heartwarming about Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake. Just the thought of it brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter, and indulgence. I remember standing in the kitchen, watching her whisk the ingredients together, the rich aroma of chocolate filling the air. The moment it came out of the oven, perfectly baked and steaming, we could hardly wait for it to cool before digging in. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia, packed with flavor and tender memories. When I make this cake, I’m reminded of those cozy afternoons spent chatting with family over warm slices topped with freshly whipped cream. It’s a simple recipe, but the results are monumental—every bite is a comforting hug for the soul.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

The Appeal of This Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake

A Taste of Tradition

One of the things I love about this Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is how it evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. Each layer tells a story, connecting me to my roots and reminding me of the love my grandma poured into each dessert.

Texture That Delights

The combination of a soft chocolate cake layered with a creamy pudding is simply divine. The cake is moist and fluffy, while the pudding adds a luscious creaminess that makes every mouthful utterly delightful.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this cake is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It never fails to impress guests, making it a go-to dessert for gatherings.

Family Favorite

This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s easy to see why. Once you serve it, you’ll inevitably be asked for seconds, and perhaps even the recipe itself.

Quick and Simple

Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. Even those new to baking can whip this cake up without any fuss. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the joys of baking.

Endless Variations

The beauty of this cake is that you can put your own spin on it. Add a touch of your favorite spice or experiment with different toppings to make it your own while keeping that classic feel.

What’s In This Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake

When it comes to the ingredients for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake, each one plays a crucial role in crafting the cake’s signature flavor and texture. The combination of basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and cocoa creates a deliciously rich base, while the milk adds moisture. The chopped nuts provide a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake. Let’s take a closer look at these wonderful ingredients.

1 cup sifted all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the cake beautifully, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
2 tablespoons cocoa (for batter): Adds rich chocolate flavor to the cake.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla: A classic flavor enhancer that adds depth.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
1/2 cup chopped nuts: Adds a delightful crunch and flavor.
2 tablespoons melted shortening: Ensures the cake stays moist and adds a light texture.
2 tablespoons cocoa (for topping): Used to create a rich chocolate topping once baked.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and moisture to the cake.
1 cup water: Creates steam during baking, making the pudding layer.
1/2 cup whipped heavy cream: A luxurious topping that complements the richness of the cake.

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake

Making Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is a delightful experience that connects you to the joys of baking. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table. Let’s dive into the process of creating this delicious treat.

Begin by sifting together flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This step is essential as it aerates the dry ingredients, ensuring a light and fluffy cake. You’ll want to see even, powdery granules.
Next, stir in milk, vanilla, shortening, and nuts. The mixture will gradually come together into a smooth batter. Focus on blending the wet ingredients thoroughly; this will help the cake rise beautifully.
Pour the batter into a greased 8x8x2-inch pan. Make sure you spread the batter evenly in the pan, as this will help it bake uniformly.
In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of cocoa for the topping. This mixture will create a rich chocolate layer that will form under the cake.
Sprinkle the brown sugar and cocoa mixture evenly over the batter. This is where the magic happens; it will sink into the batter as it bakes, creating a delicious pudding layer.
Now, pour hot water over everything in the pan. This might seem unusual, but this step is crucial—this hot water will create the pudding layer as it bakes.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the enticing aroma of chocolate.
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. The top should be firm to the touch, while the pudding layer remains soft underneath.
Finally, serve warm with a generous dollop of whipped heavy cream. It’s the perfect finishing touch that adds creaminess and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing the Right Cocoa: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa for the best flavor. This elevates the overall richness of the cake.
Checking Doneness: The cake should be set around the edges while the center remains slightly wobbly. This ensures you get that delicious pudding layer.
Serving Temperature: It’s best served warm, as the pudding layer is more pronounced and flavorful when fresh out of the oven.
Customizing Toppings: Feel free to add crushed nuts or chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream for extra texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Exploring variations of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake can be just as delightful as making the classic recipe. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up while maintaining that comforting essence.

Add a Twist of Flavor: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut to create a unique flavor profile.
Fruit Additions: Try incorporating raspberries or sliced bananas into the batter for a fruity surprise.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, everyone can enjoy it!
Mixing Textures: Consider adding mini chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey touch and delightful texture.
Different Nuts: Swap out chopped nuts for your favorite variety, such as walnuts or pecans, to change the flavor.
Layered Delight: For a more decadent dessert, try layering the cake and pudding with whipped cream in individual serving dishes.
Make it a Sundae: Serve warm slices topped with ice cream instead of whipped cream for an indulgent twist.

Serving This Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake

When it comes to serving Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake, the options are endless! This dessert is perfect for a variety of occasions, and how you serve it can take the experience to another level.

With Whipped Cream: Always serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy contrast to the cake.
Garnish with Fresh Berries: Adding fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries on the side adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor.
Family Gatherings: This cake is an excellent choice for family reunions or holiday dinners, always bringing smiles to faces.
Casual Get-Togethers: It’s also perfect for casual gatherings, providing a warm, comforting dessert that guests will love.
Seasonal Pairings: Pair it with hot beverages like coffee or tea during winter months for a delightful end to a meal.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good cold!

FAQ

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that combines a chocolate cake with a creamy pudding layer. It’s made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, cocoa, and nuts, and is often served warm with whipped cream. This cake is perfect for family gatherings and has been passed down through generations, making it a cherished recipe in many homes.

To store leftovers of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake, place them in an airtight container. It’s best to keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Yes, you can make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s essential to ensure the other ingredients, like baking powder and cocoa, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can savor this delightful treat, regardless of dietary restrictions.

This cake is incredibly versatile and suitable for various occasions. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a family reunion, or just a cozy weekend treat, Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is sure to impress. Its comforting flavors and rich texture make it the perfect dessert for any gathering, and it’s always a hit with guests of all ages.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Cake is a nostalgic dessert that brings warm feelings of home and family. Its rich chocolate flavor, combined with a creamy pudding layer, makes it truly special. I encourage you to try making this cake for yourself and share it with your loved ones. It’s an experience filled with joy, and I promise it will leave you with a craving for more. Bringing this recipe to life is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.