There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the combination of cream cheese and gumdrops in a cake. The soft, chewy bits of colorful candy scattered throughout a dense, moist cake make it a festive treat for holidays, birthdays, or simply for reliving childhood memories. Adding cream cheese to the batter gives the cake a rich, velvety texture that complements the sweetness of the gumdrops perfectly. Whether you’re making this cake for a holiday dessert table or just because you love the old-fashioned flavor, this recipe for cream cheese gumdrop cake will not disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting the baking process, it’s important to gather all the essential ingredients for your cream cheese gumdrop cake. These components come together to create a dense, moist texture with delightful bursts of fruity flavor.
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chopped gumdrops (avoid using black licorice-flavored)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for coating gumdrops)
Optional Additions
- ½ teaspoon almond extract for added depth of flavor
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch
Choosing the Right Gumdrops
Not all gumdrops are ideal for baking. You’ll want to choose firm, sugar-coated gumdrops that hold their shape during baking. Avoid soft gummy candies or spice drops that melt too quickly. If possible, cut larger gumdrops into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
Preparation Steps
Following these steps will help ensure your cream cheese gumdrop cake turns out perfectly every time. From mixing the batter to baking and cooling, each stage plays a role in the final result.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a standard 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan. This type of pan helps distribute heat evenly and gives the cake its signature ring shape.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add in the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and well-blended.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add vanilla extract and almond extract if using. These flavorings will enhance the richness and balance the sweetness of the gumdrops.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending just until the flour disappears. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Prepare the Gumdrops
Chop the gumdrops into smaller pieces if needed, and toss them in 2 tablespoons of flour. This step helps prevent the gumdrops from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
Step 6: Fold in the Gumdrops
Gently fold the floured gumdrops (and nuts, if using) into the batter with a spatula. Make sure they are evenly distributed without breaking them apart too much.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 8: Cool and Remove from Pan
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling and allow the gumdrops to set properly.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a standout dessert all on its own, but you can dress it up for special occasions or pair it with complementary sides for an extra indulgent experience.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with a light glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or orange juice for added moisture and shine.
Storing and Freezing
To keep your cream cheese gumdrop cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best texture and flavor, here are a few extra tips to consider while making your gumdrop cake:
- Always use room temperature butter, cream cheese, and eggs for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Cut gumdrops with a knife dipped in flour or oil to avoid sticking.
- Be sure to use the correct size pan; overfilling a smaller pan may cause the batter to overflow during baking.
- Let the cake rest before slicing to ensure clean, defined pieces with colorful gumdrop pockets.
Why This Cake Stands Out
The combination of cream cheese and gumdrops might sound unusual at first, but the result is a unique and delightful dessert that’s full of character. The moist, tender crumb created by the cream cheese is a perfect backdrop for the fruity chew of gumdrops. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles and sparks conversation, especially during the holiday season when colorful treats are most welcome.
This recipe for cream cheese gumdrop cake blends tradition and whimsy into one beautiful dessert. With its rich texture, festive appearance, and nostalgic charm, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for many occasions. Whether you’re baking it for the first time or revisiting a family favorite, this gumdrop cake offers a comforting and flavorful slice of homemade goodness. Stick to the recommended ingredients and steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously moist cake dotted with sweet bursts of candy in every bite.