Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding) is a delightful English dessert that brings together the best of soft, sweet apples and creamy custard. Originating from Worcestershire, this pudding features a crunchy caramelized sugar topping that elevates it beyond traditional crumbles and pies. Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply as a comforting treat, Malvern Pudding offers a nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious pudding without much hassle.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tart cooking apples and sweet eating apples creates a perfect balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm with cream or ice cream for an indulgent dessert or enjoy it cold as a refreshing treat.
• Traditional Comfort: This recipe showcases an old-fashioned English pudding that evokes warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
• Visual Appeal: The beautiful layers of apples, custard, and caramelized sugar make for an eye-catching dessert that’s great for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Malvern Pudding successfully, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference. Below are some essential kitchen items to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Baking dish
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth custard by fully incorporating the egg yolks and milk.
• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling hot dishes out of the oven.

Ingredients

For the Apples

• 375 g Cooking apples (such as Bramleys)
• 375 g Eating apples (such as russets)

For the Custard

• 45 g Butter
• 60 g Caster sugar
• Grated rind of 1 lemon
• 45 g Plain flour (or cornflour (cornstarch))
• 45 g Butter
• 45 g Caster sugar
• 500 ml Whole (full-fat) milk
• 3 Egg yolks (large, free-range)
• 1½ teaspoons Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 60 g Demerara sugar
• ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon

How to Make Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing both types of apples. Place them in a mixing bowl and toss with 60 g caster sugar and grated lemon rind. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 45 g butter. Once melted, add 45 g plain flour and mix well to form a paste. Gradually whisk in 500 ml milk until smooth. Continue stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks

Once the custard has cooled down, whisk in 3 egg yolks and 1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding

Layer half of the apple mixture in a baking dish. Pour half of the custard over it. Repeat with remaining apples and custard.

Step 5: Top with Sugar & Cinnamon

Sprinkle 60 g demerara sugar and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon evenly over the top layer to create that crunchy crust.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Enjoy your Malvern Pudding warm or cold!

How to Serve Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

Malvern pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, there are plenty of serving options to enhance its flavors.

Warm Malvern Pudding

• Serve the pudding warm from the oven for a comforting treat, allowing the caramelized sugar on top to melt slightly, enhancing its sweetness.

Chilled Malvern Pudding

• For a refreshing twist, chill the pudding in the refrigerator before serving. This makes it perfect for warmer days or as a light dessert option.

With Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of Malvern pudding. It’s an elegant touch that elevates each bite.

With Ice Cream

• Pairing your pudding with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. The cold ice cream complements the warm custard apple base beautifully.

With Custard Sauce

• Drizzle warm custard sauce over the slice for an extra indulgent experience. This enhances the custardy flavor and adds moisture.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas on top to provide a burst of freshness. This also adds color and additional nutrients to your dessert.

How to Perfect Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

To make your Malvern pudding truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right apples: Using a mix of cooking apples like Bramleys and eating apples like russets will give a balanced flavor and texture.
• Ensure even slicing: Cut your apples into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape throughout baking.
• Don’t skip the caramelization: Allowing the sugar to caramelize properly will create that desirable crunchy top layer that contrasts wonderfully with the soft pudding beneath.
• Check for doneness: Insert a skewer in the center; it should come out clean when the pudding is done, ensuring that it’s perfectly cooked.
• Let it rest: Allowing your pudding to sit for a few minutes after baking will help it set and make slicing easier.
• Experiment with spices: Adding different spices like nutmeg or ginger can give your custard apple pudding unique flavors that suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

Malvern pudding pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the pudding.
2. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt provides a tangy contrast, making it a perfect accompaniment for this sweet dessert.
3. Spiced Nuts: A handful of roasted spiced nuts adds crunch and savory notes, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying Malvern pudding.
4. Shortbread Cookies: Buttery shortbread cookies add an extra layer of sweetness and are great for dipping into any leftover custard sauce.
5. Hot Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling hot chocolate sauce over your pudding can turn this dessert into a decadent treat perfect for chocolate lovers.
6. Cheese Platter: A small selection of cheeses can provide an interesting savory contrast, enriching your dessert experience with complex flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Malvern pudding can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls ensures your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong type of apples: It’s crucial to choose the right apples. Cooking apples like Bramleys provide the necessary tartness and texture. Eating apples like russets add sweetness. Mixing these types creates a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the custard: Custard should be creamy, not rubbery. Keep an eye on the cooking time and stir gently to prevent curdling.
• Ignoring the caramelization step: The crunchy layer of sugar on top is essential for flavor. Make sure to caramelize the Demerara sugar until it’s golden brown for that perfect finish.
• Not letting it cool before serving: Allowing Malvern pudding to cool helps it set properly. Serving it too hot can make it messy and difficult to slice.
• Skipping the lemon zest: The grated lemon rind enhances the flavor profile. Don’t skip this step; it adds freshness that balances the sweetness of the pudding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler setup, stirring gently until warmed through. This method prevents direct heat from curdling your custard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)?

Malvern pudding is a traditional English dessert made with layers of soft apples and creamy custard topped with caramelized sugar. It’s a comforting treat enjoyed by many.

Can I use different types of fruit in Malvern Pudding?

Yes! While traditional recipes use apples, you can experiment with pears or berries for a unique twist on this custard apple pudding.

How do I know when my custard is set?

Your custard is set when it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. It should still be pourable but not runny.

Is Malvern Pudding suitable for special diets?

Malvern pudding can be adapted for various diets by substituting ingredients, such as using dairy-free milk or gluten-free flour, making it versatile for different dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Malvern pudding is an irresistible dessert that combines rich flavors and delightful textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of tradition!

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Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Malvern Pudding, also known as Custard Apple Pudding, is a nostalgic English dessert that perfectly marries the flavors of tart cooking apples and sweet eating apples with a smooth, creamy custard. This delightful pudding hails from Worcestershire and boasts a crunchy caramelized sugar topping that adds an irresistible texture. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, Malvern Pudding is a comforting dessert that evokes memories of home-cooked meals. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying, making it a must-try for dessert lovers everywhere.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 375 g Cooking apples (e.g., Bramleys)
• 375 g Eating apples (e.g., russets)
• 45 g Butter
• 60 g Caster sugar
• Grated rind of 1 lemon
• 45 g Plain flour
• 500 ml Whole milk
• 3 Egg yolks
• 1½ teaspoons Vanilla bean paste or extract
• 60 g Demerara sugar
• ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Peel, core, and slice cooking and eating apples. Toss them in a mixing bowl with caster sugar and lemon rind.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in plain flour to form a paste, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
4. Whisk egg yolks and vanilla into the cooled custard mixture.
5. Layer half the apple mixture in a baking dish, pour half the custard over it, then repeat.
6. Top with demerara sugar and cinnamon.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: English

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 292
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 132mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 120mg