Graham Cracker Cherry Pudding
A rich and fruity layered pudding with cherry and graham cracker flavors, topped with nuts and a buttery crumb crust, perfect for a comforting dessert or family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine in a 12-inch Dutch oven.
- Mix the melted margarine with the graham cracker crumbs.
- Drain the cherries and save the cherry juice.
- Layer the crumb mixture in the Dutch oven.
- Mix the drained cherries with chopped walnuts.
- Layer the cherry and nut mixture over the crumb layer.
- Repeat layering with remaining crumb mix and cherry nut mixture, ending with a crumb layer on top.
- Pour the reserved cherry juice over the top.
- Cook for 35 minutes with 12 coals on top and 10 on the bottom.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. To enhance the texture, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of sugar to the cherry mixture if desired. This recipe is reminiscent of traditional American desserts, making it a great choice for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm for a comforting dessert experience, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This pudding pairs beautifully with Mississippi Mudd Cake for a delightful dessert spread. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, which helps maintain the pudding's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Graham Cracker Cherry Pudding contains roughly 964 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh cherries! Just pit and slice them before mixing with the walnuts. You'll want to add a bit of sugar or sweetener to balance the tartness, as fresh cherries can be less sweet than canned ones.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter substitute. Ensure that the graham cracker crumbs you choose are also dairy-free, as some brands may use dairy ingredients. This will give you a delicious dairy-free dessert option.
Is it possible to make this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and assemble the pudding, then cover it and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before cooking, as this ensures even heating and better texture.
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).