Comfort Raisin Caramel Pudding Cake

Raisin Caramel Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of caramel with the sweetness of raisins, all in a soft, pudding-like cake. As it bakes, the batter magically separates into a light, fluffy cake on top and a luscious caramel sauce underneath, making every bite a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples.
• Self-Saucing Magic: The caramel sauce forms on its own as the cake bakes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Delicious on its own or paired with ice cream.
• Easy to Prepare: No complicated techniques required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• California raisins
• Milk
• Boiling water
• Brown sugar
• Butter or margarine

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch rectangular baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the white sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Stir in the raisins and milk to form a thick, lumpy batter. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in butter and brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the batter in the baking dish. It may look uneven, but it will settle as it bakes.
6. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and the center looks dry when tested with a fork.
7. Carefully remove from the oven; the caramel sauce underneath will be very hot.
8. Serve the cake warm, upside-down in bowls, with caramel sauce spooned over the top. Optional: Serve with ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Spiced Flavor: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips for a richer dessert.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free margarine.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes.
• Freezing: While the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How does the cake form its own caramel sauce?

As the cake bakes, the liquid caramel mixture sinks to the bottom, while the batter rises and becomes cake-like on top.

Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Yes, you can substitute raisins with chopped dates, figs, or dried cranberries.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can bake it ahead and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with this cake?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream pairs beautifully with this dessert.

Can I make this cake in a different pan size?

Yes, but baking time may vary. If using a deeper dish, it may take a few extra minutes.

Why is my caramel sauce too runny?

The sauce thickens as it cools. If it’s too thin, let the cake sit for a few minutes before serving.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine works as a substitute for butter in this recipe.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The top should be golden brown, and a fork inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Adjust baking time as needed.

Is this cake overly sweet?

The cake has a rich caramel sweetness, but serving it with ice cream or whipped cream balances the flavors.

Conclusion

Raisin Caramel Pudding Cake is a comforting dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its self-saucing caramel base and soft cake topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Whether served on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.

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