Harvest Pudding

About Harvest Pudding

Harvest Pudding is a delightful and hearty dessert traditionally enjoyed during the autumn season, especially when the harvest is bountiful. This pudding is a nod to the age-old tradition of celebrating the end of harvest with a feast, bringing together rich, comforting ingredients symbolic of the season. Its origin traces back to rural farms where every bit of the autumn harvest was used to prepare nourishing dishes. Over time, this pudding has evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients and spices, but it always remains true to its roots - celebrating the bounty of nature.

Ingredients

• Pumpkin – 2 cups, mashed and cooked
• Brown Sugar – 1 cup
• All Spice – 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon
• Eggs – 3, beaten
• Milk – 1 cup
• Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup
• Raisins – 1/2 cup
• Walnuts – 1/2 cup, chopped
• Flour – 1 cup
• Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon
• Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
• Butter – 1/2 cup, melted
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon

Preparation

To start, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a consistent result. Begin by preparing the pumpkin. If you are using fresh pumpkins, make sure to peel and cube them before cooking. Then mash them into a smooth consistency.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and all spice. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the brown sugar until it's fully dissolved. Add the mashed pumpkin to the egg mixture, followed by the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Blend everything until smooth.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl, stirring until just combined. Add in the raisins and walnuts and fold these into the batter as well.

Cooking Process

Prepare your baking dish by greasing it with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. Use a timer to keep track. To verify if the pudding is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean once the pudding is properly baked.

Enjoying Harvest Pudding

Once baked, allow the Harvest Pudding to cool slightly before serving. For an added touch of indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The pudding can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

This dessert pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for cool autumn evenings. As you savor each bite, relish the comforting flavors of autumn spices, the sweetness of the pumpkin, and the delightful crunch of the walnuts.