Bakewell pudding

Bakewell Pudding

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The Bakewell Pudding is a traditional British dessert that originated in the town of Bakewell, Derbyshire, England. It is a delicious pastry-based dessert that consists of a flaky pastry base, a layer of jam, and a rich almond filling. The pudding is often served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or custard.

History

The exact origins of the Bakewell Pudding are unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the 19th century. The recipe for the pudding was supposedly a mistake made by a cook at the Rutland Arms Inn in Bakewell. The cook was meant to make a strawberry tart, but instead spread the jam on top of the almond mixture, creating the unique layered dessert that is now known as the Bakewell Pudding.

Recipe

To make a traditional Bakewell Pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• 225g (8 oz) shortcrust pastry
• 4 tablespoons raspberry jam
• 125g (4.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 125g (4.5 oz) caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 125g (4.5 oz) ground almonds
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Flaked almonds, for decoration

Here is a step-by-step guide to making a Bakewell Pudding:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23cm (9-inch) tart tin. 2. Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line the tart tin with it, trimming any excess. 3. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the pastry base. 4. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. 5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. 6. Stir in the ground almonds and almond extract until the mixture is smooth. 7. Pour the almond mixture over the jam layer in the tart tin, spreading it out evenly. 8. Sprinkle flaked almonds on top for decoration. 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set. 10. Allow the Bakewell Pudding to cool slightly before serving.

Variations

While the traditional Bakewell Pudding is made with raspberry jam, there are variations that use different types of jam, such as strawberry or blackcurrant. Some recipes also include a layer of frangipane, a sweet almond-flavored cream, on top of the jam layer.

Cultural Significance

The Bakewell Pudding is a beloved dessert in the United Kingdom and is often associated with the town of Bakewell. The town holds an annual Bakewell Pudding Day to celebrate the dessert, featuring various events and activities centered around the pudding.

See Also

• Bakewell Tart - a related dessert that is made with a shortcrust pastry base, a layer of jam, and an almond sponge filling.