Name: Malvern Pudding (Custard Apple Pudding)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 375 g cooking apples (such as Bramleys); 375 g eating apples (such as russets); 45 g butter (for apples); 60 g caster sugar (for apples); Grated rind of 1 lemon; 45 g plain flour or cornflour (cornstarch); 45 g butter (for custard); 45 g caster sugar (for custard); 500 ml whole milk; 3 large egg yolks, free-range; 1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract; 60 g demerara sugar; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Short description

Malvern pudding is a traditional English dessert made with stewed apples, a rich vanilla custard, and a crunchy caramelized topping. Originating from the town of Malvern, this comforting pudding is a delicious way to enjoy seasonal apples in a warm, custard-filled bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A classic British dessert with a history dating back centuries.
Combines tart and sweet apples for perfect balance.
Rich homemade custard adds creaminess and depth.
Finished with a crunchy sugar and cinnamon topping.
Comfort food at its finest—warm, nostalgic, and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apples

375 g cooking apples (such as Bramleys)
375 g eating apples (such as russets)
45 g butter
60 g caster sugar
Grated rind of 1 lemon

For the custard

45 g plain flour or cornflour (cornstarch)
45 g butter
45 g caster sugar
500 ml whole milk
3 large egg yolks, free-range
1½ teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

For the topping

60 g demerara sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Cook the apples

Place the butter in a medium-sized saucepan and melt over low heat.
Peel, core, and roughly slice the cooking apples. Add to the pan.
Peel, core, and chop the eating apples into small chunks, then add them as well.
Stir in the caster sugar and cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the cooking apples have broken down and the eating apples are fork-tender (about 10–15 minutes).
If there is excess liquid at the bottom, drain it away.
Grate the lemon rind and stir the zest through the apple mixture. Set aside.

Make the custard

In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks into the milk until well combined.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and stir with a wooden spoon until smooth. Cook for 1 minute.
Remove from the heat and slowly add the milk mixture a little at a time, stirring until smooth each time.
Stir in the caster sugar.
Return the pan to moderate heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens to a creamy consistency.

Assemble the pudding

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Spread the cooked apples evenly in a baking dish.
Pour the custard over the apples.
Mix the demerara sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle evenly on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden and caramelized.
Serve warm, ideally with extra cream or custard.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.
Preparation time: 20 minutes.
Cooking time: 40–45 minutes (including apples, custard, and baking).
Total time: about 1 hour 5 minutes.

Variations

Use pears instead of apples for a twist on the classic.
Add a handful of raisins or sultanas to the apple mixture for extra sweetness.
Sprinkle chopped nuts over the topping for added crunch.
Swap the demerara sugar with light brown sugar for a slightly different caramel flavor.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream instead of cream.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds.
This pudding does not freeze well due to the custard.

FAQs

1. What type of apples are best for Malvern pudding?

A mix of tart cooking apples (like Bramleys) and sweeter eating apples (like russets) gives the best balance of flavor and texture.

2. Can I use ready-made custard instead of homemade?

Yes, though homemade custard adds a richer flavor. If using store-bought, choose a thick, high-quality custard.

3. Why is my custard lumpy?

Custard can become lumpy if the milk is added too quickly. Always add it gradually and stir constantly.

4. Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the apples and custard in the dish, then refrigerate before baking. Add the sugar topping just before baking.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use cornflour (cornstarch) instead of plain flour in the custard. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

6. How do I stop the apples from being too watery?

Drain off excess liquid after cooking the apples before adding the custard.

7. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar in the apples and custard, but the topping needs sugar to caramelize properly.

8. Can I use a different flavoring instead of vanilla?

Yes, almond extract or lemon extract can give the custard a unique twist.

9. What can I serve with Malvern pudding?

It pairs wonderfully with cream, ice cream, or an extra drizzle of custard.

10. Can I make individual servings instead of one big pudding?

Yes, bake in ramekins for 15–20 minutes for personal portions.

Conclusion

Malvern pudding is a warm and comforting dessert that showcases the perfect harmony of apples, creamy custard, and a caramelized cinnamon topping. Whether served at a family gathering or a cozy evening meal, this traditional English pudding is sure to delight with every spoonful.