Gulab Jamun Bundt Cake

This Gulab Jamun Bundt Cake is a fusion of classic Indian flavors and a soft, moist cake. Infused with aromatic cardamom and a fragrant sugar syrup, this cake captures the essence of Gulab Jamun in a beautifully baked dessert. Topped with sweetened condensed milk, Gulab Jamuns, and dried rose petals, it’s perfect for festive occasions or an indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Fusion Dessert – Combines the best of Indian sweets with a soft, fluffy cake.
• Aromatic & Flavorful – Infused with cardamom, rose water, and a sweet sugar syrup.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – A stunning centerpiece for celebrations and festivals.
• Moist & Tender – The sugar syrup soak ensures a soft and flavorful cake.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward method make it beginner-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 cup yogurt
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup rose syrup (optional)

For the Sugar Syrup:

• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
• ½ teaspoon rose water

For the Topping:

• 6-8 Gulab Jamuns
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk or white glaze icing
• Dried rose petals for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with butter or oil.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cardamom powder.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar – In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, and rose syrup (if using). Mix well.
5. Combine & Mix – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into the bundt pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Sugar Syrup:

7. Heat & Dissolve Sugar – In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, cardamom powder, and rose water. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool slightly.

Soak & Glaze the Cake:

8. Soak with Syrup – Once the cake is baked, poke small holes all over with a skewer and drizzle the sugar syrup over the warm cake. Let it absorb for a few minutes.

Decorate:

9. Glaze the Cake – Drizzle sweetened condensed milk or white glaze icing over the top.
10. Add Gulab Jamuns – Arrange Gulab Jamuns on top and sprinkle with dried rose petals for an elegant finish.

Serve:

11. Slice & Enjoy – Serve warm or at room temperature for a rich, indulgent treat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
• Cooling & Decorating Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Twist – Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-flavored Gulab Jamun cake.
• Nutty Addition – Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds on top for extra crunch.
• Dairy-Free Version – Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free yogurt and condensed milk.
• Extra Moisture – Add 2 tablespoons of Gulab Jamun syrup into the cake batter for more flavor.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Serve with rose-flavored whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Gulab Jamuns?

Yes, store-bought Gulab Jamuns work perfectly for this recipe.

What can I use instead of rose syrup?

You can substitute it with extra vanilla extract or a splash of orange blossom water.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Drizzling the sugar syrup while the cake is warm helps retain moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature. Add the toppings just before serving.

Can I make this recipe without a bundt pan?

Yes, use a round or loaf pan, but adjust baking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to slice Gulab Jamuns for topping?

If using whole Gulab Jamuns, keep them intact, or slice them in half for better presentation.

Can I make this eggless?

Yes, replace the egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or an extra ¼ cup of yogurt.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well with butter or oil and dust lightly with flour before adding the batter.

Can I add saffron to this cake?

Yes, add a pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk for extra flavor.

What pairs well with this cake?

It goes well with masala chai, saffron milk, or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion

This Gulab Jamun Bundt Cake is a stunning fusion dessert that brings the flavors of classic Indian sweets into a soft, moist cake. Perfect for special occasions or celebrations, this cake is rich, fragrant, and sure to impress. Enjoy a slice of this delicious creation with a cup of chai or as a delightful after-dinner treat!