Malvern Apple & Caramel Custard Pudding Recipe
Malvern Pudding is a traditional British dessert featuring tender baked apples set in a rich, creamy custard and topped with a caramelized sugar crust. This comforting dish combines simple ingredients like apples, eggs, cream, and sugar to create a warm and indulgent treat perfect for cozy evenings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Bramley work well)
Custard
- 1 cup (240 ml) full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)
- A pinch of salt
Topping
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar (for caramelizing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Arrange them evenly at the bottom of a buttered 8-inch square baking dish. Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the apples to enhance their sweetness and set aside.
- Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, full-fat milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, melted butter, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth. If you prefer a thicker custard, add the tablespoon of flour and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Pudding: Pour the custard mixture gently over the prepared apple slices in the baking dish. Tap the dish lightly on the counter to help the custard seep between the apple slices evenly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the pudding for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Caramelize the Sugar: About 5 minutes before baking is complete, evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the pudding. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the brown sugar caramelizes and forms a crispy topping.
- Serve: Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm for best flavor, optionally accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Bramley that hold their shape well during baking.
- The optional flour in the custard helps achieve a thicker, creamier texture but can be omitted if a lighter custard is preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Experiment with adding warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the apples for a different flavor profile.
Keywords: Malvern pudding, British dessert, baked apple custard, caramelized sugar pudding, traditional British pudding
