Cherry pudding is a classic dessert that never fails to delight with its sweet and tangy cherry filling and tender cake-like topping. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please. Join us as we explore how to make this delectable dessert, along with FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those with dietary preferences. Let’s dive in and satisfy your sweet tooth with this delightful cherry pudding!
Ingredients for Cherry Pudding:
- Cherries: Fresh or canned cherries can be used for this recipe, depending on availability and preference.
- Granulated Sugar: Sugar is used to sweeten the cherry filling and balance the tartness of the fruit.
- All-Purpose Flour: Flour is used to make the cake-like topping for the pudding.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder helps the topping rise and become light and fluffy.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of both the cherry filling and the topping.
- Milk: Milk is used to moisten the topping and create a tender texture.
- Butter: Butter adds richness to the topping and helps it brown beautifully as it bakes.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the pudding.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: If using fresh cherries, pit and halve them. If using canned cherries, drain them well. In a mixing bowl, toss the cherries with granulated sugar until evenly coated. Transfer the cherry mixture to a baking dish or individual ramekins.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick and pourable.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter over the cherry filling in the baking dish or ramekins, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve Warm: Remove the cherry pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the pudding warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Zest: Enhance the flavor of the cherry filling by adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Nutty Crunch: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans over the topping before baking.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping batter for a warm and aromatic flavor profile.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content of the topping. Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar for the cherry filling.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the cherry filling and use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the topping to lower the carb content. Opt for unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw them before using and drain any excess liquid.
Q: Can I make cherry pudding ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Cherry pudding can be made in advance and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of cherries? A: Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like berries, peaches, or apples for delicious variations of this dessert.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk, in place of regular milk.
Q: Can I make individual servings of cherry pudding? A: Yes, you can divide the cherry filling and topping batter among individual ramekins for single-serve portions. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible charm of cherry pudding! With its juicy cherry filling and fluffy cake-like topping, this dessert is a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, cherry pudding is sure to bring joy to every bite. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy this classic dessert. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of cherry pudding!
