There’s something delightfully nostalgic about baking a gumdrop cake. The colorful specks of chewy candy scattered through a rich, moist batter make every bite a celebration. This cake, popular especially during holidays or family gatherings, brings a touch of whimsy to the dessert table. Whether you remember it from your grandmother’s kitchen or are trying it for the first time, this recipe for gumdrop cake is a sweet blend of tradition and simple baking joy. With the right ingredients, a bit of care, and a sprinkle of love, it’s easy to recreate this charming classic at home.
What Is a Gumdrop Cake?
A Classic Vintage Treat
A gumdrop cake is a dense loaf or bundt-style cake filled with chopped gumdrop candies. It’s a cake that originated in North America, particularly popular in Canada, and is often associated with festive occasions. The cake base is usually a rich butter or pound cake, subtly flavored with vanilla or almond extract. The gumdrops add bursts of color and fruity sweetness, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Gumdrop Selection
It’s important to use the right type of gumdrops. Choose spice-free, fruit-flavored gumdrops, and avoid those coated in sugar or filled with liquid centers. You’ll also want to steer clear of black licorice-flavored pieces, unless that’s a taste you enjoy. Some bakers prefer to use just red and green for a Christmas theme, while others love the full rainbow effect.
Ingredients for Gumdrop Cake
Main Ingredients
For a traditional recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 tsp vanilla and 1 tsp almond extract)
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fruit-flavored gumdrops (no black ones)
- 1/4 cup (30g) flour for dusting gumdrops
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gumdrops
Start by cutting the gumdrops into small pieces about the size of a pea. To prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking, toss the chopped gumdrops in 1/4 cup of flour. This coats the candy and helps it suspend evenly in the batter.
Mixing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a 10-inch bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes with a mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla or almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined.
- Gently fold in the floured gumdrops and any optional ingredients like nuts or zest.
Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 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 halfway through baking.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Gumdrop Cake
Don’t Overmix
Once the flour has been added, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough or dry cake. The key is to create a smooth but not overly worked batter.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Butter, eggs, and milk should all be at room temperature for the best results. This helps create a more stable batter that traps air and rises well during baking.
Storage and Freezing
Gumdrop cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Presentation
Because of its colorful interior, gumdrop cake looks festive sliced and served on a platter. It’s perfect for Christmas or birthday celebrations. Add a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Pairing Ideas
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert.
- Include it as part of a dessert table alongside shortbread cookies and fruit tarts.
Why People Love Gumdrop Cake
Nostalgia and Family Memories
For many, this cake brings back memories of grandparents, holiday traditions, or school bake sales. Its retro charm and simplicity make it a feel-good dessert that transcends generations.
Fun for All Ages
Kids love the colorful candy surprise inside, and adults appreciate the moist texture and buttery flavor. It’s a cake that gets attention not only for how it looks, but for how it tastes.
Customizing the Recipe
Flavor Variations
If you’d like to experiment, try using orange extract, lemon zest, or even rum flavoring to change up the base flavor. Coconut milk or almond milk can also replace whole milk for a subtle twist.
Healthier Options
While gumdrop cake is a treat, you can make it slightly healthier by reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup, using whole wheat pastry flour for part of the flour, or substituting some of the butter with Greek yogurt or applesauce.
A recipe for gumdrop cake is more than just instructions for a dessert it’s an invitation to revisit cherished memories and create new ones. This timeless cake, filled with cheerful bits of candy and homemade warmth, offers an irresistible blend of flavor and fun. Whether you serve it during the holidays or as a weekend baking project, gumdrop cake is sure to brighten your table and bring smiles with every colorful slice.