Newfoundland gumdrop cake is a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert that has been a staple in Atlantic Canadian kitchens for generations. Dense, buttery, and filled with colorful pieces of chewy gumdrops, this cake is especially popular during the holidays and for birthdays.
It’s similar to a rich pound cake, but with a playful twist—bright, sweet candy scattered throughout every slice. This combination of simple baking and fun flavor makes it a favorite for both kids and adults.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, buttery pound cake texture
- Colorful and fun with sweet gumdrops
- Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or gifting
- Stays moist and flavorful for days
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ cup evaporated milk
- 2 ½ cups gumdrops (cut into small pieces)
- ¼ cup flour (for coating gumdrops)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease and flour a bundt pan, tube pan, or loaf pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Flavor
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking powder.
5. Combine Batter
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in parts, alternating with the evaporated milk.
Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until smooth.
6. Prepare the Gumdrops
Toss the chopped gumdrops in ¼ cup flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Fold them gently into the batter.
7. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve as is, or with a light glaze or frosting if desired.
Texture & Flavor
This cake is:
- Dense and moist like a traditional pound cake
- Buttery and rich
- Studded with chewy, sweet gumdrops in every bite
The contrast between soft cake and slightly firm candy pieces makes it unique and memorable.
Tips for Best Results
- Use firm gumdrops so they hold their shape while baking
- Cut gumdrops into small, even pieces
- Coat them in flour to keep them evenly distributed
- Avoid overly soft candy, as it may melt into the batter
How to Store
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Let thaw at room temperature or warm slices slightly before serving
A Sweet Newfoundland Tradition
Gumdrop cake has long been part of Newfoundland celebrations, especially during Christmas and special occasions. It’s often baked in batches and shared with family, friends, and neighbors, making it as much about tradition as it is about taste.
Newfoundland gumdrop cake is the perfect blend of classic baking and playful sweetness. Rich, colorful, and comforting, it’s a dessert that brings both nostalgia and joy with every slice.
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