Name: Delicious Malvern Pudding: A Cozy Dessert You'll Adore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 375 g cooking apples (Bramleys work best for a tart contrast.); 375 g eating apples (Use russets for their sweetness and depth.); 60 g caster sugar (This sweetens the apple mixture beautifully.); 1 grated rind lemon (Adds a fresh zing that elevates the flavors.); 90 g butter (Divided amounts for richness.); 45 g plain flour (Works well for a thick custard.); 500 ml whole milk (Creates a creamy texture.); 3 large egg yolks (Provide silky consistency.); 1.5 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (Essential for wonderful vanilla essence.); 60 g demerara sugar (Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunchy crust.); 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Dust this for an aromatic touch.)

Have you ever found yourself in need of a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I made Malvern Pudding. With its comforting combination of sweet and tart apples bathed in a rich, velvety custard, this dish has a magical way of bringing people together. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from soft apples to a creamy topping, enveloping your senses in pure bliss.

After a long day of juggling responsibilities, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen as this pudding bakes to perfection. It’s an effortless dessert—ideal for both family dinners and casual gatherings that will impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventure, you’ll discover that this recipe not only delights your taste buds but also fits seamlessly into your busy life. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to earn you rave reviews!

Why is Malvern Pudding a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: Each spoonful is like a hug, delivering cozy flavors that warm your heart.
Irresistibly Delicious: The mix of sweet and tart apples with creamy custard offers a perfect balance.
Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep, even novice cooks can enjoy this delightful dessert!
Versatile Treat: Whether for a family night or a special occasion, it shines on any table.
Crowd Favorite: This pudding always leaves guests wanting more—trust me, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Don’t forget to check out our other dessert recipes—they’re perfect for expanding your sweet repertoire!

Malvern Pudding Ingredients

For the Apple Base

375 g cooking apples – Bramleys work best for a tart contrast.
375 g eating apples – Use russets for their sweetness and depth.
60 g caster sugar – This sweetens the apple mixture beautifully.
Grated rind of 1 lemon – Adds a fresh zing that elevates the flavors.

For the Custard

90 g butter – Divided amounts for richness in both the apple and custard layers.
45 g plain flour – Works well for a thick custard, but cornflour is a great alternative.
500 ml whole milk – Creates a creamy texture that enhances the custard.
3 large egg yolks – These give the custard its silky consistency.
1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste – A must for adding that wonderful vanilla essence.

For Topping

60 g demerara sugar – Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunchy crust.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Dust this for an aromatic and warming touch.

Make this Malvern Pudding and experience a dessert that’s not only scrumptious but also effortlessly delightful to prepare!

How to Make Malvern Pudding

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Start your baking adventure by warming up the oven, setting the stage for a delicious treat that’s about to unfold.
Prepare the apples. Peel and core your Bramleys and russets, cutting them into delightful small pieces—these will become the sweet base of your pudding!
Cook the apples. In a saucepan, melt 45 g of butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped apples, 60 g caster sugar, and lemon rind, cooking until the apples soften, about 5–7 minutes. Once ready, transfer them to a baking dish.
Make the custard. In another saucepan, melt the remaining 45 g butter over low heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly before removing it from heat. Whisk in the egg yolks and vanilla for that creamy goodness.
Layer it all together. Pour the velvety custard mixture over the apple base in your baking dish. Then, mix the demerara sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle it generously on top.
Bake for about 20 minutes. Pop your dish into the oven and let it bake until golden brown—this is when the magic really happens!

Optional: Serve with a dollop of cream or ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Malvern Pudding

Choose Right Apples: Use a mix of tart cooking apples and sweeter eating apples for depth; avoid using only one type to ensure balance in flavors.
Perfect Custard: Gradually add milk to the roux to avoid lumps; remember, this custard is key to your Malvern Pudding’s success!
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your pudding; it should be golden brown on top but still slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven.
Add Zest: Don’t skip the lemon rind! It brightens the flavors beautifully, making each bite refreshing and vibrant.
Serve Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed warm. If it cools, pop it in the oven for a few minutes before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

What to Serve with Malvern Pudding?

Creating a complete meal around Malvern Pudding elevates the whole dining experience into something truly memorable and comforting.

Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that balances the rich custard beautifully.
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing this warm pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, melting into the warm custard for a luxurious treat.
Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits: The sweetness and crunch of cinnamon sugar biscuits bring a delightful texture and enhance traditional flavors, making every bite a little more delightful.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A glass of sparkling cider offers a refreshing, bubbly complement that enhances the pudding’s apple flavors, making it an ideal pairing for gatherings.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top before serving for added texture and a delightful crunch, providing a new twist to the classic pudding experience.
Stewed Berries: The tartness of stewed mixed berries adds a bright, fruity contrast that complements the sweetness of the Malvern Pudding beautifully.
Decaf Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of decaf coffee or herbal tea rounds off the meal nicely, creating a comforting close to your dessert experience.
Cheese Platter: Consider serving a small cheese platter with mild cheeses; the creaminess provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the pudding.

Indulge in this cozy dessert and watch everyone at your table savor each delightful bite!

How to Store and Freeze Malvern Pudding

Fridge: Store any leftover Malvern Pudding covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It will maintain its flavors and textures well in the fridge.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in a suitable airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To warm it up, place the pudding in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes, until heated through and the top is crispy again. Enjoy your cozy dessert!

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, let it sit out for about 1 hour before serving to bring back its cozy warmth.

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prep Malvern Pudding in advance! You can prepare the apple base and custard mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time—simply follow the initial steps, then let them cool before refrigerating them separately in airtight containers. To maintain the pudding’s delightful texture, make sure to cover the apple mixture to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, layer the chilled custard over the apple base, sprinkle with demerara sugar and cinnamon, and bake it according to the original instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors of Malvern Pudding with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Malvern Pudding Variations

Explore the delightful ways to make Malvern Pudding your own with these tasty options!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free version that still satisfies.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert.
Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped walnuts or pecans before baking for an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor.
Fruit Surprise: Swap in pairs or pears instead of apples for a fresh take that offers a sweet, juicy surprise.
Service with Ice Cream: Serve warm pudding with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Personal Touch: Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the serving to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Extra Sweetness: Incorporate a layer of your favorite jam or fruit compote beneath the custard for a sweet burst of flavor with each bite.

Feel free to experiment, and discover the unique twist that makes your heart sing!

Malvern Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for Malvern Pudding?
Absolutely! For the perfect balance, use a mix of tart cooking apples like Bramleys and sweet varieties like russets. Look for apples that are firm and free of dark spots, ensuring they will hold their shape and flavor during baking.

How should I store leftover Malvern Pudding?
Very easily! Refrigerate any leftover Malvern Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well covered to maintain its delightful flavors and textures!

Can I freeze Malvern Pudding?
Of course! To freeze, allow the pudding to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top.

What should I do if my custard is lumpy?
No worries! If your custard becomes lumpy, simply remove it from heat and use a whisk to vigorously stir until smooth. If needed, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps before pouring it over the apples.

Is Malvern Pudding suitable for those with allergies?
Yes, but it’s important to note that this recipe contains dairy and egg yolks, so those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies should avoid it. For a dairy-free alternative, you can experiment with almond milk or oat milk, and a flaxseed or chia egg for the yolks. I recommend adjusting the sugar to taste as plant-based milks can vary in sweetness.

How should I serve Malvern Pudding?
You can serve Malvern Pudding warm, which is absolutely delightful! For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside it. Just let it cool for about 1 hour at room temperature before enjoying!