Summer Pudding Recipe to Freeze

Introduction

Summer is the season of refreshing desserts, and what’s more refreshing than a bowl of chilled summer pudding? This classic British dessert is made with a combination of juicy berries and soft bread, soaked in fruit juice and served with cream or yogurt. The best part? This recipe can be prepared in advance and frozen, making it the perfect dessert for those hot summer days when you don’t feel like turning on the oven.

Ingredients

To make this summer pudding recipe to freeze, you will need:
– 500g mixed berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and red currants)
– 100g caster sugar
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 8 slices of white bread, crusts removed
– 150ml double cream or Greek yogurt
– Fresh mint leaves, to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and hull the berries, then place them in a large saucepan with the sugar and lemon juice. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the berries have released their juices.
2. Cut the bread into thin strips and line the base and sides of a 1-litre pudding basin, making sure there are no gaps.
3. Spoon the berry mixture into the bread-lined pudding basin, pressing down gently with a spoon to make sure the gaps are filled.
4. Cover the top of the pudding with more bread slices, making sure to cover all the berries.
5. Place a small plate or saucer on top of the pudding and weight it down with a heavy can or a jar of beans. This will help to compress the pudding and ensure that it sets properly.
6. Chill the pudding in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. To freeze the pudding, remove the weight and the plate, cover the top with cling film and place in the freezer for up to 1 month.
8. To serve, remove the pudding from the freezer and leave at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Turn out onto a serving plate and garnish with cream or yogurt and mint leaves, if using.

Variations

This summer pudding recipe is very versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:
– Swap the bread for sponge cake or ladyfingers.
– Use different types of berries or add some chopped peaches or nectarines for a more fruity flavour.
– Add a splash of liqueur such as Chambord or Cointreau to the berry mixture for an extra kick.
– Serve with a dollop of clotted cream, ice cream or custard instead of yogurt or cream.

Tips

– Make sure the bread is very fresh, otherwise it will become too soggy and won’t hold together.
– Use a non-stick pudding basin or line it with cling film for easy removal.
– If you don’t have a pudding basin, you can use a small bowl or ramekin.
– Don’t worry if the pudding leaks a little juice, this is normal and adds to the flavour.
– If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the berry mixture before pouring it into the bread-lined basin.

Conclusion

This summer pudding recipe to freeze is a must-try for anyone who loves refreshing desserts. With its vibrant colours and juicy berries, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, it’s so easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for up to a month, making it a great option for impromptu gatherings or hot summer days when you need a cool treat. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!