This Traditional Lemon Pudding Delight is a bright and zesty dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. It's a classic comfort dish that brings a refreshing twist to any meal, making it perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Granulated sugar adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the lemon. All-purpose flour helps thicken the pudding, giving it structure. The egg yolks add richness, while the egg whites are beaten to create the fluffy top layer. Unsalted butter adds creaminess and flavor depth. Whole milk contributes to the pudding’s creaminess. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest are the stars, bringing that vibrant, tangy flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances all these flavors.
This lemon pudding is a treat on its own, but you could add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a bit of texture, sprinkle some crushed shortbread cookies on top. It pairs beautifully with a fresh berry compote, which complements the lemony flavor with a hint of sweetness.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 1.5-quart baking dish. This ensures that your pudding won't stick and will have a nice, even cook. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. This dry mixture is the base of your pudding, providing sweetness and thickness.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks before adding the melted butter, milk, lemon juice, and zest. Combine these wet ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Mix until just combined — you don’t want to overwork the batter.
Take out a clean bowl and beat the egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. This might take a few minutes, so be patient. Gently fold these beaten egg whites into your lemon batter. Be careful not to deflate them; those air bubbles are what will give your dessert its characteristic lightness.
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Then, place this dish into a larger pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of your baking dish. This water bath will help cook the pudding gently and evenly.
Pop it into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You're looking for a lightly golden top with a set pudding layer beneath. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, so the flavors meld together perfectly.