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Butterscotch pudding cake is the perfect marriage of two timeless treats: a smooth, velvety pudding and a moist, flavor-packed cake. With its warm brown sugar notes and buttery caramel undertones, it’s the kind of dessert that feels like a special occasion all on its own. Get ready for a truly soul-soothing indulgence!

Ingredients

- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup butterscotch pudding mix (instant or homemade)
- 1 cup milk
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish (or similar size) and set it aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract, then add the mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir just until you have a thick, rich batter. Don’t worry if there are a few lumps—over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
In another bowl (or using the same mixing bowl if you made homemade pudding), combine your butterscotch pudding mix with the milk according to package directions. If you’re using homemade butterscotch pudding, simply ensure it’s slightly thinned with milk so it can be poured.

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, taking care to spread it evenly. Gently pour the butterscotch pudding mixture right on top—this may seem a bit strange, but trust the process! As the cake bakes, the pudding sinks down into the batter, creating a gooey, lava-like center that’s pure magic.
Bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls while still warm, and top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra finishing touch.
Butterscotch pudding cake is a dream come true for anyone who adores caramel flavors and cozy, comforting desserts. It’s an ideal treat for potlucks, family gatherings, or satisfying that late-night sweet craving. You can swap in gluten-free flour if needed or use a sugar-free pudding mix to adjust for dietary considerations. However you enjoy it, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite—don’t be surprised if people ask for the secret to its luscious, molten center again and again!