Cracker Pudding
Cracker Pudding is a creamy, nostalgic dessert combining crushed crackers, coconut, and vanilla for a subtly sweet and textured treat. Topped with fluffy meringue, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a comforting blend of flavors and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the milk, crushed crackers, coconut, salt, and sugar; then scald the mixture.
- Pour about a cup of the hot mixture over the egg yolks and blend well.
- Return the egg-milk mixture to the hot mixture and cook until thickened. Add vanilla.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and cover with meringue.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Cracker Pudding, consider using flavored crackers such as garlic or herb varieties. You can substitute coconut with finely chopped nuts if desired. For a sweeter touch, increase the sugar to suit your taste. Be sure to scald the milk properly to prevent curdling when adding the egg yolks. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes that celebrate simple, comforting desserts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cracker Pudding chilled or at room temperature, topped with a light meringue for added texture. This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as Paper Cup Salad, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cracker Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the pudding to become grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracker Pudding contains roughly 472 calories, with 19g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield a delicious dessert.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Cracker Pudding gluten-free, replace regular crackers with gluten-free alternatives made from rice or corn. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the sugar and vanilla, are certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cracker Pudding can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and cover it well to prevent drying out. Adding the meringue right before serving will keep it fresh and fluffy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).