Lemon Surprise Pudding
A delightful lemon pudding with a tender cakelike top and creamy base, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for light desserts or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, margarine, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon peel in a bowl.
- Add beaten egg yolks to the mixture.
- Gradually add milk, a little at a time, stirring continuously.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar to the egg whites and continue beating.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon mixture.
- Pour the mixture into 6 lightly greased custard cups.
- Place the cups in a pan of hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes until the top is cakelike and the pudding is set underneath.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the mixture; this adds airiness to the pudding. You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, increase the sugar by an additional tablespoon. For a twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the lemon mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pudding warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh berries or a light salad to balance the sweetness. For a delightful dessert spread, consider serving it alongside Gram'S Crisp Molasses Cookies for a comforting finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon Surprise Pudding in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pudding rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Surprise Pudding contains roughly 285 calories, with 16g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. At about 285 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 make this pudding in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to fold in the beaten egg whites just before pouring the mixture into custard cups and baking. This will ensure the pudding maintains its light, airy texture.
What can I use instead of lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lime juice for a similar tart flavor. Alternatively, a combination of vinegar and water can mimic the acidity, but the final taste will differ slightly from the original recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum, or add a small amount for better texture. This adjustment will allow you to enjoy this delightful pudding without gluten.
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).