Fruit pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fruits with the richness of a creamy base. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This simple and delicious fruit pudding recipe can be customized with your favorite fruits and is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a festive gathering. Let’s dive into the steps to make this mouthwatering fruit pudding.
Ingredients for Fruit Pudding
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed fruits (like mango, apple, banana, berries, and pineapple)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or honey for a healthier alternative)
- 1/2 cup vanilla custard powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for added crunch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent fruits from browning)
Preparing the Fruit Base
Start by washing and peeling your fruits if necessary. Cut them into small bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix together the fruits and drizzle them with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant. You can use any combination of fruits based on your preference or what’s in season. The more colorful your fruits, the more visually appealing your pudding will be.
Making the Custard
In a separate saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat this mixture on medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. In a small bowl, mix the custard powder with a little milk to create a smooth paste. Once the milk mixture starts simmering, slowly add the custard paste, stirring continuously to ensure no lumps form. Continue to cook until the custard thickens, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes.
Adding Vanilla Essence
Once the custard has thickened to a creamy consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla essence. This will give your pudding a delicious aromatic flavor. Let the custard cool for a few minutes before combining it with the fruits.
Combining the Fruits and Custard
Once the custard has cooled slightly, gently fold it into the prepared fruits. Make sure to mix everything well, but be careful not to mash the fruits. The goal is to create a smooth, creamy pudding that showcases the colorful fruits. If you’d like, you can also add chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for some added texture and crunch.
Setting the Pudding
Transfer the fruit and custard mixture into individual serving bowls or a large pudding dish. Cover the bowls with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate them for at least 2-3 hours to allow the pudding to set. Chilling the pudding gives it a firmer texture and enhances the flavor as it melds together.
Garnishing the Fruit Pudding
Once the pudding has set, it’s time to add some finishing touches. You can garnish your fruit pudding with more fresh fruits, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of honey. For a more decadent touch, you can also add a few whipped cream dollops on top.
Serving and Enjoying
Your fruit pudding is now ready to be served! It makes for a refreshing dessert, perfect after a meal or as a snack. This fruit pudding can also be a great way to incorporate more fruits into your diet, especially for kids. The combination of creamy custard and fresh fruits will surely be a hit with everyone at the table.
Conclusion
Fruit pudding is an easy-to-make, delicious dessert that is both healthy and indulgent. With the flexibility to use your favorite fruits and adjust the sweetness to your liking, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it after a cozy meal, fruit pudding is a versatile and satisfying treat that everyone will love.
