Eve’s Pudding, a dessert that truly captures the essence of home cooking, is one of my favorites to prepare when I crave something sweet yet wholesome. This recipe, inspired by the great Delia Smith, brings together the tartness of apples with a fluffy sponge, creating a dish that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eyes. Let me walk you through my version of this classic, a recipe that’s close to my heart and has been a hit at many of my family gatherings.
How To Make Eve’s Pudding Recipe by Delia Smith Overview
My take on Eve’s Pudding is a bit more generous than the traditional version, perfect for serving a family or a small gathering. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 35-40 minutes. This recipe comfortably serves about 6 people. The dessert features layers of tangy apples, complemented by a light, airy sponge that bakes to a golden perfection. It’s a simple, yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 35 grams butter, plus extra for greasing
- 6 medium tart cooking apples (e.g., Bramley), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Sponge Topping:
- 150 grams self-raising flour
- 3 large eggs
- 150 grams caster sugar
- 150 grams unsalted butter, softened
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter. Toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, and arrange them at the bottom of the dish.
- Make the Sponge: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated. Gently fold in the self-raising flour (and cinnamon or nutmeg, if using) to form a smooth batter.
- Assemble the Pudding: Spoon the sponge mixture over the apples, spreading it evenly. Ensure the apples are completely covered.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the sponge is golden and springs back when lightly pressed.
- Serve: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Also Try: Delia Smith’s Ultimate Carrot Cake: A Rich and Moist Celebration in Every Slice!
Serving Suggestions:
Serving Eve’s Pudding can be as delightful as making it. Here are some tempting suggestions to elevate this classic dessert:
Classic Style: Serve it warm, straight from the oven. The warmth brings out the flavors and makes it extra comforting.
With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is a timeless pairing. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm pudding.
Cream or Custard: Drizzle over some fresh cream or warm custard. This adds a rich and creamy dimension that complements the apples and sponge.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving can add a sweet touch and make it look more appealing.
Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness.
Caramel Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of caramel sauce can enhance the flavors and add a bit of decadence.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a luxurious feel to each serving.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pecans on top for a crunchy texture contrast.
Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a fruit compote, such as a berry or pear compote, for added fruitiness and color.
With a Cup of Tea: Simply enjoy a slice of Eve’s Pudding with a cup of your favorite tea for a cozy and satisfying dessert experience.
Remember, the beauty of Eve’s Pudding lies in its simplicity, so even the simplest of serving suggestions can turn it into a delightful treat.
Nutritional Value (per serving)
Calories: Approx. 400-450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Sugars: 35g
Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Bramley apples are great for their tartness and firmness, you can certainly experiment with other apple varieties. Different types offer unique flavors and textures. For instance, Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, similar to Bramleys. On the other hand, Golden Delicious or Gala apples bring a sweeter note. Just keep in mind, if you opt for sweeter apples, you might want to reduce the added sugar a bit. It’s all about finding the right balance that suits your taste. Happy baking!
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, making this recipe gluten-free is quite simple. Just swap the regular self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. These blends are readily available in most grocery stores. When using gluten-free flour, the texture might be slightly different, but the taste remains delicious. Also, ensure that your baking powder, if used in the blend, is gluten-free as well. This small change makes the pudding safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, while still keeping the delightful flavors of the original recipe. Enjoy your gluten-free Eve’s Pudding!
How long can I store Eve’s Pudding?
Eve’s Pudding can be stored quite well. After it cools down, you can keep it in the fridge. It stays good for about three days. Make sure to cover it well. Use an airtight container or wrap it with cling film. This keeps it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. When you’re ready to eat it again, just reheat it. You can use the oven or microwave for this. The pudding will taste almost as good as when it was freshly baked. Enjoy your leftover pudding warm and tasty!
Can I prepare Eve’s Pudding in advance?
Yes, you can definitely prepare parts of Eve’s Pudding in advance. The apple layer is a good place to start. Prepare it, put it in your baking dish, and then cover and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, you’ll just need to make the sponge topping. Add it over the apples just before baking. This way, the sponge stays fresh and fluffy. Preparing in advance like this can save you time, especially if you’re planning to serve it for a special occasion or a family dinner.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make Eve’s Pudding dairy-free. Instead of regular butter, use a plant-based butter. There are many dairy-free butters available in stores now. They work just as well as regular butter in recipes. When choosing one, go for a version that’s suitable for baking. This ensures your pudding turns out great. Also, check the labels to make sure it fits your dietary needs. With this simple swap, you can enjoy a dairy-free version of this delightful dessert without compromising on taste or texture. Perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan!
Conclusion
Eve’s Pudding is a delightful dessert that balances the tartness of apples with a sweet, fluffy sponge. It’s a testament to the beauty of simple, comforting desserts that warm the heart. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your dessert cravings. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!
