As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through the house. This Gumdrops Cake is a delightful celebration of texture and flavor, featuring a soft, tender crumb studded with vibrant bits of gumdrops that offer a chewy contrast. The moment you cut into it, you’ll discover its inviting sweetness, which brings a bit of whimsy to any dessert table. Trust me, once you taste this cake, it will become a cherished favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes! Bursting with colorful gumdrops, it adds a fun element to any gathering. Plus, its moist texture and sweet flavors make it a perfect companion for afternoon tea or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients Needed For Gumdrops Cake

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• This is the foundation of your cake and will contribute to its rich, tender crumb. Make sure it’s soft to mix well with the sugar.
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• This adds sweetness and helps create that light and airy texture when creamed with the butter.
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, leading to an even rise.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• A splash of pure vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the cake even more inviting.
• 1 tsp finely minced lemon zest (optional)
• A hint of lemon zest brightens the cake and complements the sweetness of the gumdrops.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• This gives structure to your cake. Be sure to measure it correctly for the best results.
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• Baking powder provides the lift needed for a fluffy crumb.
• ¾ cup undiluted evaporated milk
• This adds moisture and keeps the cake from drying out during baking.
• 2 ½ cups baking gums (gumdrops), mixed with an additional ¼ cup flour
• The star ingredient! Coating the gumdrops in flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.

How to Make Gumdrops Cake

1. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. This step incorporates air and will make your cake wonderfully light.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Taking your time here ensures each egg is fully incorporated, contributing to a smooth texture.
5. Mix in vanilla and lemon zest.
6. The lemon zest is optional but highly recommended for that little extra zing.
7. Sift together flour and baking powder; fold into the creamed mixture alternately with evaporated milk, beginning and ending with flour.
8. This gentle folding technique keeps the batter light and airy—no overmixing allowed!
9. Fold in the gumdrops coated in flour.
10. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
11. Pour batter into a greased bundt pan or loaf pans.
12. Greasing the pans is essential to prevent sticking, so don’t skip this step!
13. Bake at 300°F for 1 to 1 ¾ hours, testing for doneness.
14. It’s always best to check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
15. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning onto a wire rack.
16. This cooling time helps maintain the cake’s shape.

How to Serve Gumdrops Cake

This cake is perfect on its own, but consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. It’s also lovely paired with a cup of hot tea or coffee to complement the sweet flavors.

How to Store Gumdrops Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months!

Tips to Make Gumdrops Cake

• For the best texture, be sure to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag.
• If you can’t find baking gums, try substituting with a mix of your favorite chewy candies, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary.
• Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if you prefer a more complex flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nutty Addition: Consider adding 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: A teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Different Candies: Swap gumdrops for other candies like chopped up gummy bears or fruit-flavored chews for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter in Gumdrops Cake?

While you can use margarine, butter gives this cake its rich flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter substitute.

Can I make this cake a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, letting the cake sit for a day allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container.

What can I do if my gumdrops sink to the bottom while baking?

Coating the gumdrops in flour, as suggested, usually prevents this issue. If they still sink, you might try folding them in at the very end or using a different type of pan that doesn’t allow as much sinking.

Can I add frosting to the Gumdrops Cake?

While it’s delightful on its own, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk or lemon juice can elevate it beautifully!

What’s the best way to know when the cake is done baking?

Besides the toothpick test, you can also gently press the top of the cake—it should spring back slightly when done.

This Gumdrops Cake is not only a nostalgic nod to childhood treats but also an inviting dessert for any time of the year. Happy baking!

Gumdrops Cake

A delightful cake featuring a soft crumb studded with colorful gumdrops, perfect for any gathering or cozy afternoon tea.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 1.5 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature This is the foundation of your cake and will contribute to its rich, tender crumb.
• 2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps create a light and airy texture when creamed with the butter.
• 3 pieces eggs, at room temperature Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• 1 tsp finely minced lemon zest (optional) Brightens the cake and complements the sweetness of the gumdrops.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure to the cake; measure correctly for best results.
• 1.5 tsp baking powder Provides the lift needed for a fluffy crumb.
• 0.75 cups undiluted evaporated milk Adds moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.
• 2.5 cups baking gums (gumdrops), mixed with an additional ¼ cup flour Coating the gumdrops in flour prevents them from sinking during baking.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in vanilla and lemon zest.
• Sift together flour and baking powder; fold into the creamed mixture alternately with evaporated milk, beginning and ending with flour.
• Fold in the gumdrops coated in flour.
• Pour batter into a greased bundt pan or loaf pans.

Baking

• Bake at 300°F for 1 to 1 ¾ hours, testing for doneness.
• Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning onto a wire rack.

Notes

For serving, consider a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword Baking, Cake Recipe, Comfort Food, dessert, Gumdrops Cake