Name: Pretty Pink Apple Pudding Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 1 (3 oz) box strawberry or raspberry gelatin; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup cold water; 1 1/2 cups apple chunks (peeled and chopped, honeycrisp or golden delicious); Optional: a few drops of pink food coloring; Whipped cream (for garnish)

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Pretty Pink Apple Pudding Cake is a cheerful, vintage-style dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of homemade cake with a whimsical gelatin fruit topping. Featuring a tender yellow cake base layered with vibrant pink gelatin and sweet apple chunks, this treat is as visually delightful as it is delicious. Served chilled and topped with a dollop of whipped cream on a white plate, it’s a playful nod to retro favorites that still charm every generation today.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors: soft, buttery cake, cool fruity gelatin, and crisp apple bites—all finished with airy whipped cream. It’s eye-catching, fun to make, and brings back nostalgic memories of classic potluck and party desserts. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or create a memorable family treat, this pink pudding cake delivers joy in every slice.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake Base:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk

For the Pink Apple Topping:

1 (3 oz) box strawberry or raspberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1 1/2 cups apple chunks (peeled and chopped, use Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious)
Optional: a few drops of pink food coloring for a bolder hue

For Garnish:

Whipped cream

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, mixing just until the batter is combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
In a separate bowl, dissolve the gelatin powder in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
Add 1/2 cup cold water and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the chopped apples and add a few drops of pink food coloring if desired.
Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the cooled cake. Gently shake the pan to distribute the apples evenly.
Refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
Slice into squares and top each piece with whipped cream just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 55 minutes (including chilling)
Calories per serving: 280 kcal

Variations

Berry Addition: Add halved strawberries or raspberries to the gelatin layer for a mixed-fruit twist.
Spiced Cake Base: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a subtle warm flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a wheat-free version.
Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for added brightness.
Mini Trifles: Assemble in clear cups for individual servings with layered cake and gelatin.

Storage/Reheating

Store the assembled cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert should always be served cold. It does not freeze well due to the gelatin layer and whipped cream topping, which may separate or become watery upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed cake mix instead?

Yes, you can substitute the homemade cake base with a boxed yellow or vanilla cake mix for convenience. Follow the box instructions for baking.

What type of apples work best?

Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious are ideal due to their sweetness and firm texture, which holds up well in gelatin.

Do I have to add food coloring?

No. The gelatin alone will provide a pink hue, but food coloring enhances the color for a more vibrant look.

Can I use other flavors of gelatin?

Yes, cherry, raspberry, or fruit punch-flavored gelatin all pair well with apples and provide a similar pink effect.

Should the gelatin layer be poured while warm?

Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly before pouring over the cake to prevent soaking into the cake base too much.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making a day ahead. Chill overnight and garnish with whipped cream just before serving.

Is the cake soggy under the gelatin?

No. As long as the cake is completely cooled and the gelatin is only slightly warm, the structure remains intact and moist without being soggy.

Can I substitute whipped topping for whipped cream?

Yes, store-bought whipped topping can be used for ease, though freshly whipped cream offers better flavor.

What can I serve with this dessert?

Pair it with a cup of coffee or serve it alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Can I make this in a different pan?

Yes, a 9-inch round or similar-sized pan works, though slicing may vary. Adjust baking time slightly based on depth.

Conclusion

Pretty Pink Apple Pudding Cake is a nostalgic yet playful dessert that brings vibrant color and fun to the table. With its buttery cake base, refreshing apple and gelatin layer, and classic whipped cream topping, it’s the perfect treat to brighten any gathering. Easy to prepare and charmingly retro in presentation, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite for parties, family dinners, or anytime you crave a sweet and cheerful delight.

Pretty Pink Apple Pudding Cake

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 6 hours 55 minutes
Yield: 9 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A playful, retro-inspired dessert featuring a soft yellow cake base topped with sweet apple chunks suspended in a vibrant pink gelatin layer, finished with whipped cream—fun and nostalgic for all ages.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch square baking dish.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk, mixing just until combined.
Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
In a bowl, dissolve gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water and let cool slightly.
Add chopped apples and food coloring if using to the gelatin mixture.
Pour the apple gelatin mixture evenly over the cooled cake base.
Refrigerate for 4–6 hours or until fully set.
Slice into squares and top each slice with whipped cream before serving.