Finnish Cranberry Pudding
A vibrant Finnish cranberry pudding with tart cranberries and creamy texture, ideal for festive occasions or as a refreshing dessert for those who enjoy berry flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the cranberries in just enough water to almost cover.
- Cook and mash the cranberries until juice is released.
- Put the mashed cranberries through a strainer and add enough water to make 2 cups of liquid.
- Return the liquid to the stove, add sugar, and bring to a boil.
- Gradually add a scant 1/3 cup of Cream of Wheat, stirring constantly to thicken.
- Let the mixture cool, then whip until light.
- Serve the cranberry pudding with cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure you strain the cranberry mixture thoroughly to remove all solids. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust the sugar to taste. You can substitute Cream of Wheat with cornstarch for a gluten-free version, though the texture may differ slightly. To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry pudding chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Dutch Apple Cake for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or cheese platter for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or cream to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finnish Cranberry Pudding contains roughly 411 calories, with 1g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 7g 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 frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used as a substitute for fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking. The flavor will still be vibrant, making for a delicious pudding.
How can I make this pudding vegan?
To make the pudding vegan, substitute the Cream of Wheat with a plant-based thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Additionally, serve it with a dairy-free whipped topping or coconut cream for a delightful and creamy finish.
Can I add other fruits to the pudding?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for added flavor and texture. Just keep the total amount of fruit roughly the same to maintain the pudding's consistency.
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).