Introduction
Do you love pecan pie? How about warm, gooey pudding cake? If you said yes to both, then you’re going to fall in love with Pecan Pie Pudding Cake. This dessert brings the best of both worlds together. It’s sweet, sticky, nutty, and full of rich flavor. And the best part? It’s super easy to make at home!
Pecan Pie Pudding Cake is a twist on the classic pecan pie. Instead of a pie crust, this recipe uses a soft, moist cake that creates its own pudding-like sauce as it bakes. That means you don’t need any fancy ingredients or baking skills to enjoy this sweet treat. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this dessert a success!
Ingredients – Pecan Pie Pudding Cake
Here’s a list of all the things you’ll need to make Pecan Pie Pudding Cake. These are common ingredients, and you might already have many of them in your kitchen.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings and Sauce:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¾ cup brown sugar (for the topping)
- 1½ cups hot water
Step by Step Process – Pecan Pie Pudding Cake
Now, let’s go through the steps. Don’t worry—it’s super easy and fun!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure the cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, ¾ cup brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir it well using a spoon or whisk.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour the milk, melted butter, and vanilla into the bowl. Stir everything together until you get a smooth batter.
Step 4: Spread the Batter
Grease a baking dish (around 8×8 inches works well). Pour the batter into the dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top of the batter.
Step 6: Add the Brown Sugar
Now sprinkle ¾ cup of brown sugar over the pecans. Don’t mix it—just sprinkle it on top.
Step 7: Pour Hot Water
Carefully pour 1½ cups of hot water over everything in the baking dish. Yes, this sounds strange—but don’t stir it! It may look watery now, but that’s how the pudding forms.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a little firm. The magic happens while it bakes—the bottom turns into a warm, gooey pudding!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then scoop it out while it’s still warm. You’ll see the yummy sauce at the bottom and cake on top. Serve it with ice cream or whipped cream if you like!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 140mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 36g |
| Protein | 4g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds can be used if you don’t have pecans. But pecans give the best classic flavor.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
It tastes best fresh and warm, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I use plant-based milk or butter?
Yes, almond milk and vegan butter work well for a dairy-free version.
Q4: Why pour hot water on top before baking?
This is the fun part! As it bakes, the hot water mixes with sugar and sinks to the bottom to create a warm, sticky pudding sauce.
Q5: Can I double the recipe for a party?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time—about 45–50 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Pudding Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug. It’s sweet, soft, and packed with nutty flavor. And even better—it’s simple enough for kids and beginners to make.
Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday meal, or just a treat for yourself, this dessert is always a hit. You don’t need to be a baking expert or use fancy tools. Just mix, pour, bake, and enjoy!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the easiest and most delicious desserts ever.
