This rich, steamed persimmon pudding is a nostalgic Southern dessert that highlights the unique, honey-like flavor of ripe persimmons. The batter is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then slowly steamed to create a dense, moist texture similar to a traditional Christmas pudding. Topped with a flambéed brandy sauce and served alongside a light brandy whipped cream, it offers a sophisticated yet home-style indulgence. Perfect for holiday gatherings or autumn evenings, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting, aromatic treat that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.
Mrs. Ronald Reagan’s Persimmon Pudding
Description
This rich, steamed persimmon pudding is a nostalgic Southern dessert that highlights the unique, honey-like flavor of ripe persimmons. The batter is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then slowly steamed to create a dense, moist texture similar to a traditional Christmas pudding. Topped with a flambéed brandy sauce and served alongside a light brandy whipped cream, it offers a sophisticated yet home-style indulgence. Perfect for holiday gatherings or autumn evenings, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting, aromatic treat that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.Directions
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In a large bowl, stir together the sugar and 1/2 cup melted butter until well combined.
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Sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then add to the butter mixture.
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Dissolve the baking soda in the warm water.
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Add the persimmon pulp, dissolved baking soda, 3 tablespoons brandy, and vanilla to the bowl.
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Add the lightly beaten eggs, mixing lightly but thoroughly until just incorporated.
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Fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts, stirring just until evenly distributed.
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Turn the batter into a buttered 5- to 6-cup pudding mold.
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Cover the mold with foil or a heatproof lid and place it on a wire rack inside a large kettle or Dutch oven.
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Pour in enough boiling water to reach halfway up the sides of the mold.
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Cover the kettle and simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, checking periodically to ensure the water level remains halfway up the mold.
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Let the pudding stand for a few minutes before carefully removing it from the kettle.
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Unmold the pudding onto a serving dish.
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Pour about 1/4 cup warmed brandy over the pudding and carefully flame it for serving.
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For the sauce: In a small bowl, beat the egg, then gradually whisk in the melted butter, powdered sugar, salt, and brandy flavoring.
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Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold in the egg mixture.
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Serve the flambéed pudding with the brandy whipped cream sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 447.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.7g26%
- Saturated Fat 10.3g52%
- Cholesterol 43.0mg15%
- Sodium 942.4mg40%
- Total Carbohydrate 71.2g24%
- Dietary Fiber 1.6g7%
- Sugars 40.2g
- Protein 4.2g9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.