Welcome to a delightful journey back to childhood with a grown-up twist. This Very Vanilla Twinkie Bundt Cake combines the iconic flavors of your favorite snack cake with the elegance of a bundt, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated.
Why This Recipe Works
- The cake mimics the creamy, vanilla flavor of Twinkies but in a moist, fluffy bundt form.
- Using both vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste intensifies the vanilla flavor, making it irresistible.
- The unique shape of the bundt pan ensures every slice has the perfect ratio of crust to soft interior.
- It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
- The recipe includes tips for ensuring your cake releases perfectly from the pan every time.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup whole milk
Equipment Needed
- 10-inch bundt pan
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously grease your bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. This ensures your cake will release beautifully after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This not only combines them but also aerates the flour, contributing to a lighter cake texture.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In your stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste. The bean paste adds those lovely vanilla specks and deepens the flavor.
Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This method prevents overmixing and ensures a uniform batter.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back when lightly touched.
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. This patience ensures the cake sets properly and slices neatly.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra vanilla punch, consider brushing the cooled cake with a vanilla syrup made from equal parts water and sugar heated with a vanilla bean. If your cake sticks, gently loosen the edges with a thin knife before inverting. For a show-stopping presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with vanilla glaze. Remember, room temperature ingredients mix more uniformly, so take your butter and eggs out ahead of time.
Recipe Variations
- Add a cup of white chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of almond extract for a nuanced flavor profile.
- Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a summer-ready dessert.
- Swap half the all-purpose flour for cake flour for an even lighter texture.
- Infuse the milk with lavender or citrus zest for a floral or citrusy note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pan if I don’t have a bundt pan?
Absolutely! A 9×13 inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans will work, though the baking time may vary. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
This cake keeps well at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement blend suitable for baking.
Summary
This Very Vanilla Twinkie Bundt Cake is a fun, flavorful twist on a classic, combining nostalgia with the elegance of a bundt cake. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to delight with its moist texture and intense vanilla flavor.