Ozark Pudding Cake is a delightful and comforting dessert that has its roots in the heartland of America. This classic recipe combines a moist and tender cake with a warm and gooey pecan and apple pudding. The flavors and textures of this dessert evoke a sense of nostalgia and homestyle goodness. Join us as we dive into the long and detailed history of Ozark Pudding Cake, along with its ingredients and instructions, and embark on a journey to savor the irresistible flavors of this beloved American dessert.

The origins of Ozark Pudding Cake can be traced back to the Ozark region of Missouri, where it was a staple in the kitchens of home cooks and farm families. This dessert gained popularity during the early 20th century, when ingredients like apples and pecans were readily available in the region.

The recipe for Ozark Pudding Cake has been passed down through generations, often shared within families and communities. Its simplicity and use of common pantry ingredients made it a practical and comforting dessert during times of limited resources.

The cake’s name, “Ozark Pudding,” reflects its unique texture and flavor. While it is called a “pudding,” it is actually a cake with a moist and pudding-like center. The combination of apples and pecans in the filling creates a warm and gooey consistency that contrasts beautifully with the light and airy cake.

Ozark Pudding Cake quickly gained popularity beyond the Ozark region, spreading throughout the Midwest and other parts of the United States. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the comforting flavors of the familiar ingredients it showcases.

PREP: 15 MIN.

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS 

FOR THE CAKE:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

FOR THE PUDDING FILLING:

• 1 cup chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS 

FOR THE CAKE:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, milk, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
5. Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly.

FOR THE PUDDING FILLING:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped apples, chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
2. Spoon the pudding filling mixture evenly over the cake batter in the cake pan.

BAKING:

1. Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.
2. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

SERVING:

• Ozark Pudding Cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve it as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

NOTES:

• Ozark Pudding Cake is a cherished dessert that brings the warmth and flavors of the American heartland to the table. With its moist cake base and gooey pecan and apple pudding filling, this dessert provides a comforting and nostalgic experience. The simplicity and familiarity of the ingredients make it a favorite among home bakers and families. As you savor a slice of Ozark Pudding Cake, you can appreciate the history and tradition behind this beloved American dessert. Let the warm and gooey texture and the flavors of apples and pecans transport you to simpler times and evoke a sense of home and togetherness. Enjoy the comfort and deliciousness that Ozark Pudding Cake brings, and savor each bite of this classic dessert.