Description
Queen of Puddings is a traditional British dessert featuring a creamy breadcrumb custard base topped with a layer of vibrant raspberry or strawberry jam and crowned with a golden, crisp meringue. This comforting treat strikes a perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and airy textures, ideal for serving warm or chilled after a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¾ cup fresh breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for custard)
- 3 large egg yolks (separated from whites)
Topping
- â…“ cup raspberry or strawberry jam
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) to warm up while you prepare the pudding.
- Warm Milk Mixture: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until the butter melts and the mixture is warm but not boiling, then remove from heat.
- Soak Breadcrumbs: Stir in the fresh breadcrumbs into the warm milk mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes so the crumbs absorb the liquid fully.
- Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks together with ¼ cup of granulated sugar until smooth, then combine this with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake Custard Base: Pour the breadcrumb custard into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it is just set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Add Jam: Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before spreading the raspberry or strawberry jam evenly across the surface.
- Prepare Meringue: Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt in a clean, dry bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve glossy, stiff peaks.
- Top with Meringue: Spoon or pipe the prepared meringue on top of the jam layer, spreading evenly.
- Final Bake: Return the pudding to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the meringue is beautifully golden and crisp on top.
- Serve: Enjoy your Queen of Puddings warm for a comforting treat or chilled as a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- You may use store-bought or homemade jam depending on your preference.
- For added texture, lightly toast the breadcrumbs before mixing them into the milk.
- This dessert is a classic British favorite and is perfect served after a traditional Sunday roast.
