A gumdrop cake is a delightful old-fashioned treat that brings back childhood memories with every bite. It’s a moist, sweet loaf-style cake filled with colorful gumdrops that melt slightly as they bake, creating pockets of chewy candy goodness throughout. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a cheerful tea-time snack, this simple moist gumdrop cake recipe is easy to make at home with pantry staples and just the right touch of nostalgia. The result is a beautifully textured cake that’s visually appealing and incredibly satisfying to eat.
Ingredients for a Moist Gumdrop Cake
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create a simple and moist gumdrop cake, gather the following ingredients. These are commonly found in most kitchens and grocery stores, and the process does not require any advanced baking techniques.
- 1 cup of butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups of white granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour (plus 1 tablespoon for coating gumdrops)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups chopped gumdrops (use the sugar-coated kind, not spice drops)
Optional Add-Ins
For added flavor and variation, you can include:
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Zest from one orange or lemon
Choosing the Right Gumdrops
What Kind Works Best
When selecting gumdrops for your cake, opt for the small, sugar-coated fruit-flavored ones. Avoid spice drops, as their clove or anise flavors can overpower the sweetness of the cake. Before adding gumdrops to the batter, chop them into smaller pieces to allow for even distribution throughout the cake. Dusting them with flour prevents them from sinking during baking.
Instructions for Making Gumdrop Cake
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your gumdrop cake moist and delicious every time:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and any other flavorings such as almond extract or citrus zest.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the flour mixture.
- Coat the chopped gumdrops with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps keep them suspended in the batter instead of sinking to the bottom.
- Gently fold the floured gumdrops (and nuts, if using) into the batter with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
How to Serve Your Gumdrop Cake
This simple moist gumdrop cake tastes wonderful on its own but can be dressed up for special occasions. Try serving slices with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of citrus glaze. It also pairs nicely with a cup of tea or coffee.
Storing for Freshness
Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap it in foil and freeze for up to two months. Allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why This Gumdrop Cake is Always a Hit
Moist Texture and Vibrant Appearance
One of the most appealing features of this gumdrop cake is its moist, tender crumb. The balance of butter, milk, and sugar keeps it rich without being overly dense. The chopped gumdrops melt slightly during baking, infusing the cake with fruity sweetness and creating bursts of color in every slice.
Perfect for Special Occasions
This cake is a festive favorite during the holiday season, especially in North American and Canadian households. It also works well for children’s birthday parties, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Its colorful appearance and nostalgic flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser across all age groups.
Customization Ideas
Make It Your Own
Here are a few creative variations to try:
- Use mini loaf pans to create individual gumdrop cakes great for gifting.
- Try substituting half the milk with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in shredded coconut or crushed pineapple for added texture and flavor.
- Top with a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra sweetness and shine.
With a few simple changes, you can make this gumdrop cake uniquely yours while preserving its essential charm.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Tips for Perfect Results
If your cake turns out too dry, try reducing the baking time slightly or increasing the milk by a couple of tablespoons. If gumdrops sink to the bottom, make sure they are well-coated in flour and that your batter isn’t too thin. Also, avoid using overly large or sticky gumdrops.
This simple moist gumdrop cake recipe is a perfect example of a traditional dessert that stands the test of time. It’s easy to make, packed with color, and has a nostalgic flavor that warms the heart. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday celebration or just to enjoy something sweet at home, this gumdrop cake offers a combination of fun and flavor that never goes out of style. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.