Description
Queen of puddings is a classic British dessert featuring a creamy breadcrumb custard base topped with a layer of raspberry jam and finished with a golden, fluffy meringue. This comforting treat combines rich, tangy, and sweet flavors, baked to perfection for a warm, satisfying finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Base
- 550ml milk
- 25g butter, plus extra for the dish
- 1 lemon, zested
- 100g fresh white breadcrumbs
- 40g caster sugar (from the total 240g)
- 4 egg yolks (from separated eggs)
Meringue Topping
- 4 egg whites (from separated eggs)
- 200g caster sugar (remaining from total 240g)
Jam Layer
- 6–8 tbsp raspberry jam
Instructions
- Prepare the breadcrumb custard base: Warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, and 40g of caster sugar. Let this mixture soak and cool for 30 minutes until the breadcrumbs have absorbed the liquid.
- Bake the custard base: Preheat your oven to 180C (160C fan) or gas mark 4. Butter a medium-large baking dish, about 22cm in diameter. Once the breadcrumb mixture has cooled, stir in the egg yolks and pour this custard base into the prepared dish. Bake for 30 minutes until set, resembling a soft custard layer.
- Apply the raspberry jam layer: Warm the raspberry jam gently in a small saucepan over low heat to loosen it slightly. Spread a thin, even layer of jam over the baked custard base. If your dish is deep, you may need to use less jam to keep the layer thin. Then reduce the oven temperature to 160C (140C fan) or gas mark 2.
- Make the meringue topping: Using an electric whisk or stand mixer, whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form. Gradually whisk in the remaining 200g caster sugar a little at a time until the meringue is glossy and holds firm peaks.
- Apply meringue and bake: Spoon or pipe the meringue evenly over the jam layer, ensuring full coverage. Return the pudding to the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the meringue is golden and set.
- Serve: Best served warm straight from the oven for a deliciously soft and sweet dessert experience.
Notes
- Use fresh white breadcrumbs for the best texture and consistency in the custard base.
- Ensure the egg whites bowl and whisk are completely clean and dry to achieve perfect stiff peaks for the meringue.
- Adjust the amount of raspberry jam depending on the depth of your baking dish; a thin layer works best.
- This dessert is best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature.
- Lemon zest adds a subtle citrus brightness; you can adjust the amount according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Queen of puddings, British dessert, breadcrumb custard, raspberry jam, meringue, classic pudding, baked dessert
