Persimmon Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Persimmon pudding is a delightful and flavorful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe persimmons with warm spices to create a comforting treat. This recipe is perfect for fall and winter, when persimmons are in season, making it an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With its moist texture and rich flavor, persimmon pudding is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Persimmon pulp

2 cups

Granulated sugar

2 cups

All-purpose flour

2 cups

Baking soda

2 teaspoons

Baking powder

1 teaspoon

Eggs

2 large

Milk

2 cups

Unsalted butter

4 tablespoons, melted

Vanilla extract

1 teaspoon

Ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon

Ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon

Chopped nuts

Optional, 1/2 cup (e.g., pecans or walnuts)

Prep Time

Preparing persimmon pudding is simple and requires around 15 minutes for the ingredients to be measured, mixed, and combined. The key step is ensuring you obtain fresh and ripe persimmon pulp, as it plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the dessert.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for this persimmon pudding is approximately 1 hour. Including the prep time, the total time required is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making this recipe manageable for busy schedules. It yields 8 servings, making it suitable for small family gatherings or dinner parties.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a large baking dish or pudding mold by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Mash the persimmons

Take ripe persimmons, peel off their skin, and mash the pulp until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps in the persimmon pulp. Measure out 2 cups of prepared pulp.

Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed persimmon pulp with the eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk everything together until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the dry ingredients are well mixed.

Step 5: Incorporate dry and wet ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or a whisk to fold the mixture carefully until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add milk and vanilla

Slowly stir in the milk and vanilla extract into the batter. Mix until the batter reaches a smooth and slightly runny consistency.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the dish

Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish or pudding mold. Spread the batter evenly using the spatula.

Step 8: Prepare a water bath

Place the baking dish inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain moisture in the pudding.

Step 9: Bake the pudding

Place the roasting pan with the pudding in the preheated oven. Bake for about 55 to 60 minutes or until the top is set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool the pudding

Once done baking, carefully remove the baking dish from the water bath. Let the pudding cool in the dish for about 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing persimmons

Use fully ripe and soft persimmons with a sweet flavor for the best results. Fuyu and Hachiya persimmons are ideal choices.

Note 2: Adjusting sweetness

Taste the persimmons before using them. If they are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly to balance the flavors.

Note 3: Storing the pudding

Store leftover pudding wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat servings in the microwave before enjoying.

Note 4: Serving suggestions

This pudding pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

Note 5: Substitution options

You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk if you prefer a dairy-free option. Similarly, you can replace melted butter with coconut oil for a healthier alternative.
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Cook techniques

Preparing the Persimmon Pulp

To achieve the right consistency for your pudding, starting with ripe and soft persimmons is key. Scoop the flesh and blend it until smooth to create a perfect pulp.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

Combine the persimmon pulp with sugar, eggs, and milk to achieve a uniform mixture. Mix carefully to ensure all wet components come together smoothly.

Incorporating Dry Ingredients

Sift together the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and spices before gently folding them into the wet mixture. This helps avoid lumps and ensures even distribution of flavor.

Baking to Perfection

Pour the prepared batter into a preheated oven. Bake the pudding until it’s set, and the top turns a beautiful golden color. Use a toothpick to check doneness.

Cooling the Pudding

Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. This enhances its flavor and makes it easier to cut into portions.

FAQ

What type of persimmons should I use?

It’s best to use ripe and soft Hachiya persimmons for this pudding recipe as they provide the perfect sweetness and texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can make substitutions, such as using alternative sweeteners or non-dairy milk, but it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

How do I know when the pudding is done?

The pudding is done when the top appears golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I prepare persimmon pulp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pulp in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a few days.

What is the best way to store leftover pudding?

Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving if desired.

Conclusion

Persimmon pudding is a delightful dessert that’s not only rich in flavor but also in its ability to bring in the sweetness of the season. Its luscious texture and distinctive taste make it a perfect treat for gatherings or simply indulging in some comforting dessert moments. With the right balance of ingredients and the natural sweetness of persimmons, this recipe is sure to be a favorite in your kitchen.

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