Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 50 mins | Rest Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 50 mins
Difficulty: Beginner | Cooking Temperature: 266°F (130°C) | Servings: 6
Best Season: Perfect all year round
Description
Caramel Pudding and Soft Cake is an exquisite dessert that beautifully combines the silky richness of caramel pudding with the delicate fluffiness of soft cake. This two-layered treat is not only visually stunning but also a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or indulgent moments.
The base layer features a smooth and creamy caramel pudding made with milk, cream, eggs, and sugar. The sugar is carefully caramelized to a golden-brown hue, creating a deep, rich flavor that enhances the pudding’s velvety texture.
On top of the pudding sits a soft and tender cake layer, crafted from a light batter of cake flour, eggs, sugar, milk, and oil. The batter is delicately poured over the set caramel pudding and baked to golden perfection in a gentle water bath.
Once chilled, this decadent dessert is ready to be served as is or enhanced with toppings such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Whether for an elegant dinner party or a cozy gathering, Caramel Pudding and Soft Cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Caramel Layer
- 55g (1/3 cup) granulated sugar
- 15g water
- 25g hot water
Pudding Layer
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 30g (3 tbsp) granulated sugar
- 240g (1 cup) milk
- 60g (1/4 cup) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Soft Cake Layer
- 22g (5 tsp) vegetable oil
- 28g (2 tbsp) milk
- 32g (1/4 cup) cake flour
- 2 eggs (separated)
- 23g (2 tbsp) sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sugar and water. Let it cook until the sugar dissolves and transforms into a golden amber caramel.
- Carefully add 25g of hot water to the caramel. Stir well (watch out for splashes!).
- Pour the caramel into heatproof pudding cups, creating a thin layer at the bottom.
- Transfer the cups to the fridge and let the caramel set while you prepare the pudding.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolk, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until it starts to simmer.
- Remove from heat and slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
- Strain the mixture twice for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Fill each pudding cup halfway with the pudding mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Soft Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 130°C (266°F).
- Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in the fridge to keep them cool.
- In a clean bowl, mix vegetable oil and milk. Add cake flour and stir until smooth.
- Add egg yolks and mix well. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the chilled egg whites with lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sugar until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold a scoop of whipped egg whites into the batter. Once incorporated, fold the remaining egg whites into the mixture until just combined.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the cake batter over the pudding layer in each cup. Smooth out the tops.
- Place the cups in a deep baking tray and add enough hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake at 130°C (266°F) for 30 minutes, then increase the temperature to 140°C (284°F) and bake for another 20 minutes.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cups cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Enjoy as is for a pure caramel and cake experience.
- Decadent: Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
- Fruity: Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a vibrant touch.
Notes & Tips
- Caramel: Work carefully with the hot caramel to avoid burns.
- Cake Flour: Use low-protein flour (7-9% protein content) for the softest cake texture. Do not use self-rising flour.
- Chilling Time: Allow the dessert to rest in the fridge before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.
This Caramel Pudding and Soft Cake is a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that combines creamy caramel, silky pudding, and fluffy cake in every bite. Try it out and enjoy a truly irresistible homemade treat! 🍮✨
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