Queen Of Puddings

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to infuse your home with festive scents and create sweet memories than by baking up a classic United Kingdom Christmas treat – the Queen of Puddings. This delightful dessert is sure to impress your loved ones with its blend of textures and flavors. Combining a luscious custard base, a layer of fruity jam, and crowned with fluffy meringue, the Queen of Puddings is a royal addition to any holiday table. Let’s dive into the recipe below!

**Queen Of Puddings**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 3 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
– 5 tablespoons raspberry jam
– A pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup caster sugar

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, heat the milk with the vanilla extract and lemon zest until just boiling. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and creamy.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
5. Stir in the breadcrumbs and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid.
6. Gently pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
7. Spread the raspberry jam over the top of the custard layer.
8. In a separate clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar while continuing to whisk until glossy.
9. Spoon the meringue over the jam layer, creating decorative peaks with the back of a spoon.
10. Bake the Queen of Puddings for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.
11. Allow the pudding to cool before serving, either warm or chilled, as desired.

Enjoy the regal flavors of the Queen of Puddings this holiday season, and watch as your guests revel in the decadent layers of this exquisite Christmas dessert. Whether it’s a formal dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite tradition in your festive repertoire. Indulge in the richness of custard, the sweetness of jam, and the airy lightness of meringue, all in one heavenly bite. It’s time to treat yourself to a taste of the United Kingdom’s culinary heritage with this timeless dessert fit for a queen!