Name: Irresistible Malvern Pudding: A Cozy Custard Apple Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 375 g Cooking Apples (e.g., Bramleys); 375 g Eating Apples (e.g., russets); 45 g Butter (can use margarine for a dairy-free version); 60 g Caster Sugar (extra for topping); 1 piece Grated Rind of Lemon (can substitute with orange zest); 45 g Plain Flour (or Cornflour for gluten-free option); 500 ml Whole Milk (nut milk for dairy-free); 3 large Egg Yolks (aquafaba may be used for vegan); 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste (or vanilla extract); 60 g Demerara Sugar (for topping); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (or nutmeg for variety)

Baking is like weaving stories; each ingredient brings its own character to the table. Enter Malvern Pudding, a delightful custard apple dessert that combines the tartness of cooking apples with the sweetness of eating apples, all nestled beneath a velvety custard. This traditional English dessert not only warms the heart but is also simple enough for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike. With its gluten-free option and endless customization possibilities, you can effortlessly make it your own, whether you’re craving a classic treat or wanting to experiment with flavors. Ready to create a delicious family favorite that’s just begging to be savored? Let’s dive into the magic of Malvern Pudding!

Why is Malvern Pudding a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: Every bite of Malvern Pudding envelops you in a cozy embrace, making it a perfect dessert for chilly evenings.
Easy to Make: The straightforward preparation means even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen.
Customizable Delight: From using different apple varieties to tweaking spices, you can tailor this recipe to your taste. Why not explore more options with our dessert recipes?
Gluten-Free Option: With a quick swap for gluten-free flour, everyone can indulge without worry.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this pudding is sure to impress!

Malvern Pudding Ingredients

• Want to create this classic British dessert? Here’s what you need!

For the Apples

Cooking Apples (375 g, e.g., Bramleys) – Provides tartness and structure; ensure they’re suitable for baking.
Eating Apples (375 g, e.g., russets) – Adds sweetness and balance; experiment with different sweet apple varieties if desired.

For the Custard

Butter (45 g) – Adds richness and moisture; can use margarine for a dairy-free version.
Caster Sugar (60 g + extra for topping) – Sweetens the pudding and creates a crunchy topping; granulated sugar can be substituted if necessary.
Grated Rind of 1 Lemon – Enhances flavor with citrus notes; can substitute with orange zest for variation.
Plain Flour (45 g) or Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Provides structure to the custard; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Whole Milk (500 ml) – Essential for creamy custard; nut milk can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Egg Yolks (3 large) – Serves as a thickening agent for the custard; aquafaba may be used for a vegan version.
Vanilla Bean Paste (1½ teaspoons) – Adds depth of flavor; vanilla extract can serve as a substitute.

For the Topping

Demerara Sugar (60 g, for topping) – Offers a crunchy caramelized finish; brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – Enhances warmth and spice in the pudding; nutmeg is a great alternative for variety.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Malvern Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures a perfectly baked Malvern Pudding, allowing the top to caramelize while the custard sets beneath. While the oven heats, gather your baking dish, preferably a 2-liter capacity, ready for layering the delightful ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the cooking and eating apples into thin wedges. In a medium saucepan, cook them over medium heat with a splash of water for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but retain their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and then remove from heat to cool slightly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 45 grams of butter and 60 grams of caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice a pale, airy texture forming; this is key for a rich Malvern Pudding.

Step 4: Mix in the Lemon Rind and Flour
Add the grated lemon rind to the creamed mixture, mixing well to incorporate. Gradually sift in 45 grams of plain flour (or cornflour for a gluten-free option) while gently folding it with a spatula. This creates a smooth batter that serves as the custard base.

Step 5: Whisk in the Milk
Slowly whisk in 500 ml of warm milk to the batter until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. This process takes about 2 minutes and is essential for achieving that velvety custard texture in your Malvern Pudding.

Step 6: Incorporate Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Add three large egg yolks and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla bean paste to the custard mixture. Mix until fully incorporated, achieving a silky consistency. The egg yolks will help thicken the mixture as it bakes, lending a luxurious mouthfeel to the pudding.

Step 7: Assemble the Pudding
Layer the softened apple slices evenly in your prepared baking dish, spreading them out for even distribution. Pour the custard mixture gently over the apples, ensuring they are completely submerged. This combination creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures essential for a perfect Malvern Pudding.

Step 8: Sprinkle the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 60 grams of demerara sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Evenly sprinkle this mixture on top of the custard, ensuring an even coating. This will caramelize beautifully, giving your Malvern Pudding a crunchy topping that you’ll love.

Step 9: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when the top is golden brown and slightly puffed, with a slight jiggle in the center—this indicates the custard is set but not overcooked.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove your Malvern Pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Served warm, this delightful dessert pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, adding to the comforting experience of this traditional English treat.

Malvern Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and transform your Malvern Pudding into your personal masterpiece!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with nut milk and margarine for butter to make it dairy-free.
This swap will ensure everyone can enjoy the pudding without sacrificing richness.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour for a gluten-free option.
This simple adjustment means gluten-sensitive family members can indulge just as much as everyone else!
Cocoa Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolatey flair.
This variation brings a delightful twist, making it a hit among chocolate lovers. Check out more rich chocolate options in our dessert selection.
Citrus Zest: Substitute lemon rind with orange or lime zest for a fruity burst of flavor.
The citrus notes will brighten the cozy profile of your pudding, adding an unexpected zing!
Nutty Crunch: Mix in a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, with the layered apples for added texture.
Their earthy flavors will complement the apples beautifully, giving your pudding a satisfying crunch.
Berry Bliss: Consider incorporating fresh or frozen berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, along with your apples.
These juicy additions will bring bursts of sweetness and color, elevating your dessert!
Spice it Up: Enhance your warming spices by mixing in a pinch of ginger or allspice for depth.
A hint of heat might just be the twist that makes your Malvern Pudding unforgettable.
Caramel Drizzle: Top your baked pudding with a drizzle of salted caramel before serving.
This extra layer of sweetness adds a luxurious finish, turning your dessert into an indulgent experience you won’t forget!

How to Store and Freeze Malvern Pudding

Room Temperature: Malvern Pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before it should be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring the custard stays creamy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Malvern Pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain the pudding’s delightful texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Malvern Pudding preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can peel, core, and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the custard mixture (but don’t bake it) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, layer the softened apples in your baking dish, pour the chilled custard over them, sprinkle with cinnamon and demerara sugar, and bake until golden brown. This way, your Malvern Pudding remains just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dessert with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Malvern Pudding

Apple Choices: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples to create a balanced flavor. Avoid mushy apples; they should only be slightly softened before layering.
Smooth Custard: Whisk the warm milk into the creamed mixture gradually to prevent lumps. A smooth custard is key to a successful Malvern Pudding.
Watch the Bake Time: The pudding should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to a dry custard, so keep a close eye on it as it bakes.
Get Creative: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or incorporate dried fruits and nuts. This allows you to customize your Malvern Pudding to your family’s taste.
Perfect Pairing: Serve the pudding warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent touch that enhances the flavors beautifully.

What to Serve with Delightful Malvern Pudding?

Creating the perfect meal doesn’t stop at dessert; it invites a medley of flavors and textures to the table.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of ice cream melts beautifully into the warm pudding, enhancing its rich custard and apple flavors.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the pudding’s richness perfectly. Pair it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your Malvern Pudding elevates the dessert with a luxuriously sweet touch, creating a delightful contrast with the tart apples.
Spiced Apple Compote: Serve a small scoop of this alongside for an extra punch of apple flavor, complementing the pudding’s own apple base with added spices like ginger and nutmeg!
Buttery Shortbread Cookies: The crumbly texture of shortbread cookies offers a satisfying crunch and contrasts wonderfully with the soft pudding, a delightful pairing for all ages.
Earl Grey Tea: Sip this fragrant tea to enrich the dessert experience, where its unique bergamot notes elegantly complement dessert’s flavors and soothe the senses.
Fresh Berries: A bright burst of seasonal berries adds a refreshing and tangy touch, cleansing the palate while adding beautiful visual appeal to your dessert plate.
Chai Latte: For a warming drink option, the spiced notes of chai can enhance the cozy feeling of the pudding and bring everything together harmoniously.

Malvern Pudding Recipe FAQs

Can I use any types of apples for the Malvern Pudding?
Absolutely! For a well-balanced flavor, I recommend using a combination of tart cooking apples like Bramleys and sweet eating apples like russets. You can also experiment with other varieties, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to find your perfect blend.

How should I store Malvern Pudding after baking?
To keep your Malvern Pudding fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. When you reheat, simple pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through—you’ll want to avoid letting the custard dry out!

Can I freeze Malvern Pudding for later?
Yes! If you’d like to enjoy your Malvern Pudding later, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 150°C (300°F).

What should I do if my custard mixture has lumps?
No worries! If you find lumps in your custard mixture, the best way to fix this is to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it over the apples. This will ensure your Malvern Pudding has that smooth, velvety consistency that’s so delightful to indulge in.

Is there a gluten-free option for Malvern Pudding?
Very much so! To make your Malvern Pudding gluten-free, simply substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornflour (cornstarch). This switch will allow everyone to enjoy this comforting dessert without worry while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.