Delia Smith Apple And Almond Pudding
Discover the delightful warmth and flavor of Delia Smith's Apple and Almond Pudding, a recipe that perfectly combines the tartness of Bramley apples with the rich, nutty essence of almonds. This pudding, a treasure from the British culinary tradition, offers an exquisite dessert option that's as comforting as it is delicious.
Brief Description of the Recipe
Delia Smith's Apple and Almond Pudding is an exquisite blend of soft, caramelized apples tucked under a light, almond-flavored sponge. It's a testament to the harmony between fruit and nut, creating a dessert that's both hearty and refined.
Cultural or Historical Context
This pudding recipe has been shared by Delia Smith, one of Britain's most respected and loved culinary figures. The combination of apples and almonds is a classic in British baking, reflecting the country's love for puddings that comfort and delight.
Ingredients List for Delia Smith's Apple and Almond Pudding
- Bramley Cooking Apples: 450g, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Soft Brown Sugar: 50g
- Ground Almonds: 110g
- Butter: 110g, at room temperature
- Golden Caster Sugar: 110g
- Large Eggs: 2, beaten
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 180°C (Gas Mark 4 or 350°F).
- Prepare the Apples: Cook the sliced apples with brown sugar and a bit of water until they're soft and mushy. Then, arrange them at the bottom of your buttered baking dish.
- Make the Almond Mixture: Cream the butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the beaten eggs, then fold in the ground almonds.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the almond mixture over the apples, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until golden.
- Serve: Enjoy this pudding warm or cold, complemented by a dollop of cream or custard for extra indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
To preserve the pudding, let it cool and then store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
This pudding offers a mix of nutritional values from the fiber-rich apples to the protein and healthy fats in almonds. However, specific calorie counts will depend on serving sizes and any additional accompaniments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple? A: Bramley apples are preferred for their tartness and texture, but you can experiment with other varieties. Adjust sugar accordingly.
Q: Is it possible to make this gluten-free? A: Yes, by ensuring your baking powder and any other additives are gluten-free, this recipe can suit a gluten-free diet, as it primarily uses ground almonds instead of flour.
Q: Can I freeze this pudding? A: Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Delia Smith's Apple and Almond Pudding is a delectable dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Its simplicity, rooted in traditional British baking, showcases the timeless appeal of combining apples and almonds. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this pudding is sure to impress.
Original recipe by Delia Smith, as found on Delia Online and Caller Recipes.