Baked Lemon Pudding Recipe - A Classic British Dessert

Baked Lemon Pudding

Baked Lemon Pudding Recipe - A Classic British Dessert
Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Lemon Pudding
Baked Lemon Pudding

Baked Lemon Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy texture of a custard-like pudding. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate a sweet treat with a refreshing citrus twist. The recipe is simple, requiring basic ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply indulge in a comforting dessert, Baked Lemon Pudding is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of Baked Lemon Pudding can be traced back to the British Isles, where lemon-based desserts have long been a staple. Over the years, this dessert has evolved, with variations appearing in different cultures. However, the core elements of lemon, sugar, and a creamy base have remained constant. This particular recipe, with its use of egg whites to create a light and fluffy texture, is a modern take on traditional lemon puddings.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Mix sugar and cornstarch.
  2. Add milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon rind.
  3. Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites.
  4. Pour into a buttered baking dish and place it in a fresh pan of hot water.
  5. Bake at 300° F for one hour or until the pudding leaves the sides of the baking dish.
  6. The pudding may be topped with whipped cream.

Variations

  • There are several ways to vary this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs:
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
  • Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
  • Incorporate other citrus flavors, such as lime or orange, for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Lemon Pudding turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- When separating the eggs, ensure no yolk gets into the whites to achieve stiff peaks when beaten.

- Use fresh lemons for the juice and rind to maximize the flavor.

- Bake the pudding in a water bath to help it cook evenly and maintain a smooth texture.

- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to enhance its flavor and consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Lemon Pudding can be served slightly warm or at room temperature. Topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of elegance. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a handful of fresh berries.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the folding of stiffly beaten egg whites into the batter. This method helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter, fluffier pudding. It's important to fold gently to avoid deflating the egg whites.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cornstarch is not available, an equal amount of all-purpose flour can be used as a thickener, though the texture may be slightly different.

- Honey or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness, though adjustments to the liquid content may be necessary.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven for the best flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pudding in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with lemon slices, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Lemon Pudding pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco. The acidity of the wine complements the tanginess of the lemon, making for a delightful combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Lemon Pudding contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively light option for a dessert, especially when compared to richer, more calorie-dense options.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baked Lemon Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the granulated sugar, making this dessert a source of quick energy.

Fats

This dessert is relatively low in fats, with about 5 grams per serving. The fats primarily come from the egg yolks and the small amount of milk in the recipe.

Proteins

Each serving of Baked Lemon Pudding provides around 4 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs. This contributes to the overall nutritional value of the dessert.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, and this dessert provides a modest amount of this essential vitamin. Additionally, the milk and eggs contribute calcium and iron, respectively.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are eggs and milk. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dessert or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Lemon Pudding is a dessert that offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a moderate calorie count. While it does contain sugar and allergens like eggs and milk, it also provides some nutritional benefits, including protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Baked Lemon Pudding is a classic dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's an ideal choice for any occasion. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with wine or fresh fruit, this pudding is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling outside, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Baked Lemon Pudding caught my eye. The ingredients were simple – eggs, sugar, milk, flour, and of course, fresh lemons. But the method seemed a bit more complex than the usual recipes I had tried before.

I remembered my grandmother telling me stories of her own adventures in the kitchen, learning how to make traditional recipes from her own mother and grandmother. She always said that the key to a good recipe was patience and practice. So, with her words in mind, I set out to master the art of making Baked Lemon Pudding.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work. I cracked the eggs into a bowl, carefully separating the yolks from the whites. I mixed the yolks with the sugar until they were light and fluffy, then added in the milk and flour, stirring until the mixture was smooth. Finally, I added in the zest and juice of the lemons, giving the pudding a bright and tangy flavor.

As I poured the mixture into a baking dish and placed it in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The smell of lemons filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait for the pudding to finish baking.

When the timer finally went off, I opened the oven door to reveal a golden brown pudding, with a light and airy texture. I couldn't resist taking a small taste, and as soon as the spoon touched my lips, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I have made Baked Lemon Pudding countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add in a bit of vanilla extract for a touch of sweetness, or sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for a crunchy finish. But no matter how I change it, the pudding always brings me back to that crisp autumn day when I first discovered it in my grandmother's old cookbook.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making Baked Lemon Pudding from one generation to the next. And as I watch my own grandchildren now learning how to make it themselves, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. The recipe may have come from a book, but the memories and stories that surround it are all my own.

So, as I sit here now, enjoying a warm slice of Baked Lemon Pudding with a dollop of whipped cream on top, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple joys that cooking can bring. And I know that as long as I continue to experiment and learn in the kitchen, there will always be new recipes and stories waiting to be discovered.

Categories

| British Recipes | Dessert Recipes | Egg Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Lemon Recipes | Pudding Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients