Mary Berry Apple And Mincemeat Pudding Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a cozy, indulgent dessert that perfectly blends seasonal flavors, then Mary Berry’s apple and mincemeat pudding is a must-try!

This delightful recipe combines the tartness of apples with the rich, spiced sweetness of mincemeat, creating a comforting and flavorful treat that’s perfect for autumn or the holiday season. Not only is it super easy to make, but the result is a beautifully moist pudding that will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this is one recipe you won’t want to miss!

Mary Berry Apple And Mincemeat Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding has a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, combining the tartness of apples with the rich, spiced sweetness of mincemeat. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful dessert:

• 300g Cooking Apples: Typically, tart apples like Bramley are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the mincemeat. Peel, core, and chop them into bite-sized chunks.

• 250g Mincemeat: Mincemeat is traditionally made with dried fruits, spices, and often a bit of suet.

  It’s not just for mince pies!

  The mincemeat adds a rich, spiced base that complements the apples.

• 100g Butter: Softened butter is key for both flavor and texture. It creates a tender, moist pudding that isn’t too dense.

• 200g Self-Raising Flour: The self-raising flour ensures that the pudding rises to a lovely light consistency without needing additional raising agents.

• 200g Caster Sugar: Caster sugar is perfect for this dessert, dissolving easily into the mixture to provide a smooth, even sweetness.

• 2 Large Eggs: Eggs are the binding agents, adding structure to the batter while also contributing moisture.

• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a warm, spicy flavor that pairs wonderfully with both the apples and the mincemeat.

• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and flavor complexity of the pudding.

• 100ml Milk: Milk helps to loosen the batter, ensuring the pudding mixture is just the right consistency before baking.

• Zest of Half a Lemon: A fresh zing of citrus zest brightens up the flavors, cutting through the richness of the mincemeat and butter.

• A Pinch of Salt: This balances the sweetness and helps to highlight the other flavors in the dish.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding, you will need some basic kitchen equipment, but nothing too complicated:

• Oven: Preheated to 180°C (160°C fan-assisted) or 350°F. A reliable oven is essential for baking the pudding evenly.

• 9-inch Round Cake Tin: Choose a round, deep cake tin or a pudding basin for a traditional look. It needs to be greased well or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for combining the dry ingredients and a separate bowl for wet ingredients before mixing them together.

• Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric hand mixer or stand mixer will make the process quicker and more efficient, especially when creaming the butter and sugar. However, a hand whisk can also work well.

• Peeler, Core, and Knife: For prepping the apples – you’ll need these to peel, core, and chop them into chunks.

• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently, ensuring the batter remains light.

• Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: To evenly distribute the apple and mincemeat mixture into the cake tin.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding

This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare. With a few simple steps, you can make a delicious, comforting pudding.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-assisted), or 350°F. This ensures the pudding will bake evenly and rise beautifully once it’s ready to go in.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and chop the cooking apples into small chunks. Place the chopped apples into the base of your prepared cake tin.

3. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand using a whisk. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth and well-combined.

5. Add the Mincemeat: Gently fold in the mincemeat, being careful not to overmix, as this will ensure the pudding has a light texture. Once the mincemeat is evenly distributed, pour the batter over the apples in the tin.

6. Bake the Pudding: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown on top and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.

7. Serving: Once baked, allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious served warm with custard, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Expert Tips

1. Use Bramley Apples: For the best results, opt for Bramley apples as they provide a lovely tart contrast to the sweetness of the mincemeat and hold their shape during baking.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When incorporating the flour, cinnamon, and milk into the wet ingredients, mix gently to prevent the pudding from becoming dense. Overworking the batter can lead to a heavy texture.

3. Add a Dash of Rum or Brandy: If you want to elevate the flavors, you can add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the mincemeat mixture. The alcohol will cook off, leaving a deeper, more complex flavor behind.

4. Ensure Even Distribution: When you pour the batter over the apples, make sure it’s evenly spread so that the apples are fully covered and the pudding bakes evenly.

5. Check for Doneness: Puddings can sometimes take longer or shorter depending on your oven. A skewer or toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center to confirm it’s cooked through.

6. Serving Suggestions: Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding pairs wonderfully with a rich custard, thick cream, or even a scoop of ice cream. You can also dust it with a little powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding is an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for colder months or festive occasions. With a beautiful balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors, this pudding offers comfort in every bite.

It’s a great way to use seasonal ingredients like apples and mincemeat while creating a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of light, airy batter and the slightly caramelized fruit beneath is a delicious contrast, making it the perfect cozy treat for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home. Enjoy it warm with your favorite accompaniment, and you’ll be transported to dessert heaven!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding

Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding is a delightful, comforting dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the rich, spiced taste of mincemeat. It’s a classic that can be adapted in several ways to suit different preferences and occasions. Here are a few easy recipe variations to elevate this dessert or put a unique twist on it:

1. Change the Fruit: While the recipe calls for apples, you can experiment with different fruits to bring out different flavors. Pears, for instance, offer a subtler sweetness that pairs beautifully with mincemeat, while adding cranberries can lend a tart, festive touch. You could even try a combination of apples and blackberries for a more intense, berry-flavored twist.

2. Add Nuts and Dried Fruits: To add extra texture and complexity to the pudding, consider folding in some chopped nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, or chopped apricots will enhance the depth of flavor and bring additional sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.

3. Use a Flavored Sponge: The base of this pudding is typically made with a simple sponge mixture. You can infuse it with different flavors to complement the apples and mincemeat. Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger to the sponge will enhance the warmth and festive feel of the dish. Alternatively, you could try using orange zest or lemon zest in the sponge to add a citrusy freshness.

4. Make It Gluten-Free: For those with dietary restrictions, swapping regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend works perfectly. Additionally, using a gluten-free baking powder will ensure the sponge remains light and fluffy. Just ensure your mincemeat is gluten-free as well.

5. Vegan Twist: For a dairy-free and egg-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or margarine. Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) to substitute the eggs. Coconut milk or almond milk can be used in place of regular milk, ensuring the pudding remains just as indulgent while adhering to vegan dietary preferences.

6. Add a Liqueur: For an extra touch of elegance, try soaking your dried fruits in a splash of brandy, rum, or sherry before incorporating them into the pudding mixture. This not only adds an additional layer of flavor but also infuses the pudding with a festive richness.

By experimenting with these variations, you can customize the pudding to suit your taste, making it perfect for any celebration or as a comforting treat on a cold day.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Apple and mincemeat pudding, like many desserts, is even better when reheated and enjoyed later. However, proper storage is key to preserving its flavor and texture for the days to come.

1. Cool It Completely: Before storing, always allow your pudding to cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can result in a soggy texture when reheating. Leave it uncovered for the initial cooling to ensure moisture doesn’t build up on the top.

2. Airtight Containers: For the best results, store your leftovers in an airtight container. This helps to retain moisture while preventing the pudding from absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you don’t have a container large enough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable bag to seal in freshness.

3. Refrigeration: If you plan to enjoy the pudding within the next few days, simply store it in the fridge. It should last for 3 to 4 days without losing too much of its flavor. The cold air of the refrigerator helps to preserve the pudding’s structure, though it may slightly alter the texture of the sponge.

4. Freezing: For longer storage, this pudding freezes beautifully. To freeze, cut the pudding into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place all portions into a freezer-safe bag or container to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or for a quick method, you can microwave individual portions on low heat.

5. Reheating: To reheat your pudding, the oven is often the best method to preserve the texture. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pudding is warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s strength. For an even more indulgent treat, serve reheated slices with a dollop of whipped cream, custard, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

By following these storage tips, your Apple and Mincemeat Pudding will remain delicious and fresh, ready to be enjoyed even after the initial serving.

What Goes Well With Apple And Mincemeat Pudding

Apple and Mincemeat Pudding is a hearty and flavorful dessert on its own, but it can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas for what goes well with this delightful treat:

1. Custard: The richness of a smooth, creamy custard pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pudding. Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, warm custard drizzled over the pudding is an indulgent choice that makes the dessert even more luxurious.

2. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is an easy, classic accompaniment to this dessert. It adds a touch of freshness and balances the pudding’s warmth and depth with its light, sweet fluffiness. You could even infuse the cream with a dash of vanilla or cinnamon for added flavor.

3. Ice Cream: For those who enjoy a cold contrast with their warm desserts, ice cream is an excellent choice. Vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream works particularly well with the spiced and fruity notes of the pudding. A scoop of ice cream can make the dessert feel even more indulgent and provide a refreshing coolness.

4. Brandy Butter: If you’re feeling particularly festive, brandy butter is a classic pairing for desserts like this. The slight boozy kick of the brandy mixed with the rich, buttery texture is an iconic British pairing, especially during the holidays.

5. Compote or Fruit Sauce: For those who prefer a lighter topping, a simple fruit compote made with berries, cherries, or even more apples can complement the flavors in the pudding. A warm, fruity sauce will add a refreshing tanginess to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

6. Cheese: Although it may sound unconventional, some people enjoy pairing fruit-based desserts with cheese. A sharp cheddar or tangy Stilton can provide an interesting contrast to the sweetness of the pudding, making for a savory-sweet combination that’s especially enjoyed at holiday gatherings.

7. Hot Drinks: Pair your pudding with a warm drink to add to the cozy ambiance. A cup of spiced chai, a hot toddy, or a simple cup of English Breakfast tea can enhance the flavors of the dessert while adding a touch of warmth.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Apple and Mincemeat Pudding is a wonderful, comforting dessert that combines the warmth of seasonal spices, the tartness of apples, and the richness of mincemeat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, holiday feast, or just as a treat to brighten your day, it offers endless possibilities for customization. From swapping fruits to adding nuts, spices, or even changing the base for a gluten-free or vegan alternative, the options for variation are as limitless as your imagination.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, this pudding can easily be enjoyed multiple times without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you reheat it in the oven or microwave, it remains a delight, ready to be paired with custard, whipped cream, or even a little brandy butter.

Whatever you choose to pair with it, this delicious dessert is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Perfect for gatherings or as an after-dinner treat, it combines the best of both traditional and modern flavors, making it a timeless favorite that will never go out of style.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

To make Mary Berry’s apple and mincemeat pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients: apples, mincemeat, butter, sugar, self-raising flour, eggs, ground almonds, milk, and ground cinnamon. Optionally, you can also add a little lemon zest for extra flavor.

Can I Use Store-bought Mincemeat For Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

Yes, you can use store-bought mincemeat for this recipe. However, if you prefer a more homemade touch, you can make your own mincemeat using a mix of dried fruits, suet, sugar, spices, and brandy or rum.

How Do I Prepare The Apples For Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

To prepare the apples for this pudding, peel, core, and chop them into small pieces. You can use a variety of apples, but tart apples like Bramley work particularly well to balance the sweetness of the mincemeat.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding ahead of time. You can assemble it and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can bake it and store it in an airtight container for up to two days, reheating it when needed.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding Take To Bake?

The pudding generally takes about 45-50 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Check the pudding by inserting a skewer; it should come out clean when it’s ready.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this pudding gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring that the mincemeat and other ingredients do not contain gluten.

What Is The Texture Of Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

Mary Berry’s apple and mincemeat pudding has a soft, moist texture. The apples provide a slight juiciness, while the mincemeat adds richness and a hint of spice. The batter holds it all together with a slight crumb.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the pudding either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap it tightly in cling film and freeze for up to three months.

If freezing baked pudding, let it cool completely before wrapping it and freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight and bake at 160°C (320°F) until heated through.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

This pudding is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream, custard, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Can I Add Other Fruits To Mary Berry’s Apple And Mincemeat Pudding?

Yes, you can experiment by adding other fruits like pears, cranberries, or raisins to the pudding. Just be sure to balance the sweetness and acidity of the fruits with the mincemeat and spices.