Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes: Beloved Newfoundland Holiday Tradition

If you’ve never tried them before, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Unlike overly sweet modern desserts, these cakes strike the perfect balance—rich from brown sugar, tender from slow creaming, and dotted with soft, chewy gumdrops that add bursts of fruity flavor. Best of all? They’re incredibly simple to make, requiring just basic pantry ingredients and a little patience while they bake.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a taste of Newfoundland tradition or simply want a festive treat that stands out from the usual cookies, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the history, tips for perfect results, and why these humble squares have stood the test of time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes is their simplicity. You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already.

Essential Ingredients

Choosing the Right Gumdrops

• Traditional Newfoundland style: Spice gumdrops (for a warm, old-fashioned flavor).
• Festive option: Red and green gumdrops for Christmas.
• Alternative: If gumdrops are hard to find, jujubes or licorice allsorts can work (though the texture will differ).

Pro Tip: Toss the chopped gumdrops in a little flour before mixing—this prevents them from sinking to the bottom.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes

Follow these simple steps for a foolproof batch every time.

1. Preheat & Prep

• Heat your oven to 325°F (160°C)—this lower temperature prevents the gumdrops from melting too much.
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Cream the Butter & Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This step is crucial for a tender texture.

3. Add Eggs & Vanilla

• Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
• Stir in the vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Blend Wet & Dry Mixtures

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

6. Fold in Gumdrops & Coconut

• Gently stir in the chopped gumdrops (and shredded coconut, if using).

7. Bake & Cool

• Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before cutting into squares—this ensures clean slices.

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Expert Tips for the Best Results

Want to make sure your Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes turn out perfectly? Keep these tips in mind.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t overbake: The cake should be just set—overbaking leads to dryness.
• Use room-temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect texture.
• Chop gumdrops evenly: Large pieces can make slicing difficult.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezing: These cakes freeze well for up to 3 months—layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Serving idea: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for extra flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

What if I can’t find gumdrops?

Try using chopped jujubes or licorice allsorts, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Why did my gumdrops melt too much?

Baking at too high a temperature can cause this. Stick to 325°F (160°C) for best results

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The History of Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes

Before we get to baking, it’s worth understanding where this recipe comes from. Unlike flashy modern desserts, Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes have humble roots. They emerged in mid-20th-century Newfoundland, when home bakers relied on simple, shelf-stable ingredients to create special treats for the holidays..

Why Gumdrops?

• In earlier decades, gumdrops were considered a luxury ingredient—something saved for special occasions.
• Their long shelf life made them ideal for remote communities where fresh fruit wasn’t always available.
• The colorful candies added a festive touch to otherwise plain cakes, making them perfect for Christmas.

A Recipe Passed Down Through Generations

Many Newfoundland families have their own version of this recipe, often handwritten in well-loved community cookbooks or shared between neighbors. Some bakers swear by spice gumdrops for a warm, old-fashioned flavor, while others prefer fruity varieties for a brighter taste.

Today, these cakes remain a holiday essential, whether served at family gatherings, packed into cookie tins for gifting, or sold at local bake sales.

There’s a reason Gumdrop Crinkle Cakes have remained a Newfoundland favorite for generations. They’re simple, nostalgic, and utterly delicious—a true taste of holiday tradition.

Whether you’re baking them for the first time or carrying on a family recipe, these squares are sure to become a cherished part of your celebrations. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of history.