Angel Food Summer Pudding

Angel Food Summer Pudding Recipe with Mixed Berries and Triple Sec

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: overnight | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Angel Food Summer Pudding is a delightful, light dessert perfect for warm weather and outdoor gatherings. This recipe combines the airy sweetness of angel food cake with the tart and refreshing flavors of summer berries, all complemented by a hint of citrus and a luxurious whipped cream topping. It's a no-bake dessert that's as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, making it a fantastic choice for summer picnics, barbecues, or any occasion that calls for something special yet uncomplicated.

History

The concept of summer pudding, using fresh berries and bread to create a simple yet flavorful dessert, has its roots in British cuisine, dating back to the 19th century. However, this version, which substitutes traditional bread with angel food cake, is a distinctly American twist, offering a lighter, fluffier texture. The addition of triple sec and lemon rind adds depth and complexity to the berry mixture, elevating the dish from its humble beginnings to a sophisticated dessert.

Ingredients

1 prepared angel food cake

Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
2 cups fresh blueberries
2 cups fresh raspberries
2 cups blackberries
0.25 cup sugar
0.25 cup triple sec
2 tsp grated lemon rind

Topping and garnish

How to prepare

Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine berries, sugar, liqueur, and lemon peel.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries are soft and sugar has dissolved, for 5 to 8 minutes (do not overcook).
Allow the mixture to cool.

Pudding

Using a serrated knife, trim the cake to remove any browned edges.
Slice the cake into 0.5 inch slices, then cut the slices into triangles.
Line the bottom and sides of a 1.5 to 2 qt (1.89 liter) bowl or souffle dish tightly with three-quarters of the cake.
If needed, fill any gaps with small pieces of cake.
Spoon the filling into the cake-lined bowl.
Cover the berries completely with the remaining cake triangles.
Place a plate, slightly smaller than the bowl's diameter, on top of the pudding.
Place a 4 or 5 lb (2.27 kg) can on the plate to weigh it down.
Chill the pudding for 8 hours or overnight.
Remove the plate and can.
Carefully unmold the pudding onto a serving plate.

Topping and garnish

Beat the cream at medium speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar.
Spoon the cream mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe small mounds of the cream mixture on top of the pudding.
Garnish with fresh berries and sprigs of fresh mint.
Enjoy!

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the triple sec with orange juice or a non-alcoholic orange liqueur.
Use a mix of different berries or substitute with other seasonal fruits like peaches or nectarines for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a whipped coconut cream or a low-fat whipped topping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Angel Food Summer Pudding turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use a serrated knife to easily slice the angel food cake without compressing it.

- When cooking the berries, keep the heat medium to avoid overcooking and turning them into a jam-like consistency.

- Allow the berry mixture to cool completely before assembling the pudding to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.

- Be patient and chill the assembled pudding for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the structure to set properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve each portion of Angel Food Summer Pudding chilled, with a dollop of the whipped cream topping and a garnish of fresh berries and mint. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little berry coulis around the plate.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe involve gently cooking the berries to soften them while retaining their shape and flavor, and carefully assembling the pudding to ensure it holds together well after being chilled and unmolded.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute angel food cake with a light sponge cake or chiffon cake if desired.

- If triple sec is not available, any orange-flavored liqueur or a combination of orange juice and zest can be used.

- Use frozen berries if fresh ones are not in season, but thaw and drain them well before use.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert is best made ahead of time, requiring at least 8 hours of chilling to set properly. It can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions on dessert plates with a mint leaf and a few fresh berries. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the plate can add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

Angel Food Summer Pudding pairs beautifully with a light, sweet dessert wine, such as a Moscato d'Asti or a Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a sparkling elderflower beverage or a fresh mint tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dessert cannot be reheated but can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Angel Food Summer Pudding contains approximately 350 calories. The majority of these calories come from carbohydrates and fats.

Carbohydrates

This dessert is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the natural sugars in the berries and the sugar content of the angel food cake and added sugar. A serving of Angel Food Summer Pudding contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in this dessert comes mainly from the heavy cream used in the topping. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat, most of which is saturated fat from the cream.

Proteins

Angel Food Summer Pudding is not a significant source of protein, containing only about 4 grams per serving. The small amount of protein comes from the angel food cake and the heavy cream.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a good source of Vitamin C, thanks to the variety of fresh berries used in the filling. Berries are also known for their antioxidant properties. Additionally, the dessert provides small amounts of calcium and iron, primarily from the cake and cream.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the angel food cake) and dairy (from the heavy cream). It's also worth noting that the recipe contains alcohol (triple sec), which may not be suitable for all diets.

Summary

Angel Food Summer Pudding is a dessert that offers a balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. While it's not low in calories or fat, it provides nutritional benefits from the fresh berries, including Vitamin C and antioxidants. It's a delightful treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Angel Food Summer Pudding is a refreshing, berry-filled dessert that's perfect for summer. Its combination of light cake, vibrant berries, and creamy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. With its make-ahead convenience and stunning presentation, it's an ideal choice for summer entertaining.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day, just like today, and I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a yellowed piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Angel Food Summer Pudding.

I had never heard of such a dessert before, but the ingredients intrigued me. It called for a light and airy angel food cake, fresh summer berries, and a hint of lemon zest. It seemed like the perfect treat to enjoy on a warm summer evening. I had to give it a try.

I followed the instructions carefully, beating the egg whites until they formed stiff peaks and gently folding in the flour and sugar. The kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of vanilla as the cake baked in the oven. Once it was golden brown and fluffy, I let it cool before cutting it into cubes.

Next, I prepared the summer berries. I had picked some ripe raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries from my garden earlier that day. I tossed them with a bit of sugar and lemon zest to bring out their natural sweetness. As I spooned the juicy berries over the angel food cake cubes, I couldn't help but smile at the vibrant colors and delicious aromas.

Finally, I whipped up some fresh cream to serve alongside the Angel Food Summer Pudding. The creamy richness of the whipped cream balanced out the light and fruity flavors of the dessert perfectly. I garnished each serving with a sprig of mint for a touch of freshness.

When my family sat down to enjoy the Angel Food Summer Pudding that evening, their faces lit up with delight. The combination of the fluffy cake, juicy berries, and creamy whipped cream was a true summer indulgence. They savored each bite, savoring the sweetness of the berries and the delicate texture of the cake.

As we finished our dessert, my family showered me with compliments and requests for the recipe. I proudly shared the handwritten piece of paper that had sparked this culinary adventure. Little did I know that this simple recipe would become a beloved favorite in our household for years to come.

Since that fateful day, I have made Angel Food Summer Pudding countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. The recipe has become a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. It never fails to impress with its light and refreshing flavors, perfect for a hot summer day.

I often think back to that moment when I stumbled upon the recipe for Angel Food Summer Pudding. It was a serendipitous discovery that has brought so much joy and satisfaction into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and this dessert represents the essence of my culinary journey - a blend of tradition, creativity, and love.

As I sit here reminiscing about that sunny afternoon and the delightful dessert that came out of it, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy that cooking has brought me over the years. Food has a way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories. And for me, Angel Food Summer Pudding will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the power of a good recipe and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.