Fruit Pudding Cake

A Fruit Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of fresh fruit with a soft, pudding-like cake texture. This dessert is versatile and can be made with a variety of fruits, depending on what’s in season or your personal preference. Here’s a basic recipe for a Fruit Pudding Cake:

Fruit Pudding Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Fruit Layer:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen fruit (such as berries, peaches, or apples)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk

For Garnish (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Whipped cream
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Layer

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round baking dish.

2. Prepare the fruit: In a bowl, toss the fruit with sugar and lemon juice. If you prefer a thicker fruit layer, stir in the cornstarch.

3. Bake the fruit layer: Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes to start softening the fruit.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Add batter over fruit: Pour the cake batter over the partially baked fruit layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

2. Bake the cake: Return to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

3. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving.

Step 4: Garnish (Optional)

1. Decorate: Dust with powdered sugar, top with whipped cream, and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

This Fruit Pudding Cake is a comforting and versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the combination of tender cake and juicy fruit!