Quick Baked Lemon Pudding With Blueberry Jam

Save

Introduction

Quick Baked Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Jam offers a delightful combination of tangy citrus and sweet berry flavors in a comforting dessert. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the relatively short time required to prepare. Popular for its elegant presentation and satisfying taste, this dessert is frequently chosen for both casual family meals and more formal gatherings. The pudding provides a smooth, creamy texture contrasted beautifully by the vibrant burst of flavor from the blueberry jam. Its versatility and ease of preparation contribute to its widespread popularity.

Ingredients

The essential ingredients for Quick Baked Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Jam include:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the pudding. Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitution.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pudding and aids in browning. Consider using caster sugar for a finer texture.
• Salt: Enhances the other flavors.
• Milk: Creates the creamy base. Whole milk offers a richer flavor, but lower-fat milk alternatives or non-dairy milks such as almond or soy milk can be substituted.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Provides the signature lemon flavor. Ensure the zest is finely grated to avoid bitterness.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the pudding’s texture.
• Blueberry Jam: Adds sweetness and fruity notes. Homemade or store-bought varieties can be used. Choose a high-quality jam for optimal flavor. Consider other berry jams like raspberry or blackberry as alternative options.
• Butter (Optional): Adding a small amount of melted butter can enhance the richness.

Preparation Steps

The preparation process is straightforward:

1. Preheat the Oven: Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature (see cooking instructions below) for even baking.
2. Prepare the Ramekins: Lightly grease ramekins to prevent sticking. If desired, dust the ramekins with sugar for extra sweetness and texture.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and eggs until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough pudding.
6. Assemble the Pudding: Spoon a layer of batter into the prepared ramekins, followed by a spoonful of blueberry jam. Top with the remaining batter.

Tip: For a more intense lemon flavor, allow the lemon zest to steep in the milk for about 30 minutes before combining the wet ingredients.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Baking: Place the ramekins in a baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This creates a water bath (bain-marie), which helps the pudding cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
2. Temperature and Time: Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the puddings are set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. The internal temperature should reach about 180F (82C).
3. Check for Doneness: Gently shake the ramekins. The pudding should be set on the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center. A toothpick inserted near the edge should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs in the very center is acceptable.
4. Cooling: Remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully transfer the ramekins to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Quick Baked Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Jam in various ways:

• Warm: Serve warm, allowing the pudding to retain its creamy texture.
• Cold: Chill the pudding for a refreshing dessert, especially during warmer months.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Garnishes: Garnish with fresh blueberries, a lemon wedge, or a sprig of mint.

The pudding pairs well with a light dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To enhance the baking experience and achieve optimal results:

• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough pudding. Mix until just combined.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the best flavor.
• Water Bath: The water bath is crucial for even cooking and preventing the pudding from drying out. Ensure the water level is high enough to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry and rubbery pudding. Check for doneness after 30 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Proper Cooling: Allowing the puddings to cool slightly before serving helps them set and prevents them from collapsing.
• Jam Consistency: If the blueberry jam is too thick, warm it slightly before adding it to the batter for easier distribution.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering Quick Baked Lemon Pudding with Blueberry Jam brings the warmth of a homemade dessert to any table. The bright, tangy lemon perfectly complements the sweet and fruity jam, creating a symphony of flavors. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it ideal for weeknight treats or elegant dinner party finales. Adapt this recipe by experimenting with different berry jams, citrus fruits, or toppings to suit personal preferences. Unleash culinary creativity and share the joy of this delectable dessert. Discover more inspiring recipes and practical cooking guidance at foodrecipestory.com and elevate your culinary skills today.