Cottage Pudding is a classic dessert that has its roots in American culinary history. It’s a comforting and versatile dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. The dish consists of a moist and tender cake-like pudding, often studded with raisins, and it is typically served with a warm, rich sauce. Cottage Pudding gained popularity in the 19th century and has remained a beloved dessert option, cherished for its simple yet delightful flavors and textures.

Cottage Pudding’s origins can be traced back to early American colonial times when cooks had to be resourceful with the ingredients they had on hand. As a result, simple and adaptable recipes like Cottage Pudding emerged. The pudding’s name likely comes from its rustic, humble nature, reminiscent of the cozy cottages of the time.

In the 19th century, with the advent of more refined baking techniques and the availability of baking powder, Cottage Pudding became a popular dessert. It was often served at family gatherings, community events, and social gatherings. The recipe variations were passed down through generations, with families adding their own twists to the dish.

Today, Cottage Pudding retains its charm and remains a comforting dessert that evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.

INGREDIENTS

For the Pudding:

• 1 cupful sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 cupful milk or water
• 2-1/4 cupfuls flour
• 2 tablespoonfuls Crisco (vegetable shortening)
• 2-1/2 teaspoonfuls baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoonful salt
• 1 teaspoonful vanilla extract
• 1 cupful sultana raisins

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoonful Crisco (vegetable shortening)
• 1 cupful sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoonful flour
• 1/2 teaspoonful vanilla extract
• 1-1/2 cupfuls boiling water

INSTRUCTIONS

For the Pudding:

1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together Crisco and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the well-beaten egg, milk (or water), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well to create a smooth batter.
6. Stir in the sultana raisins to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
7. Grease a pudding mold and pour the batter into it.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove the pudding from the mold and set aside.

For the Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, mix together the flour, sugar, and Crisco.
2. Stir in the beaten egg and then add the boiling water.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 3 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

To Serve:

1. Slice the Cottage Pudding and place individual servings on plates.
2. Pour the warm sauce over each serving of pudding.
3. Optionally, you can garnish with additional raisins or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
4. Enjoy the delicious combination of moist pudding and rich sauce, a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

NOTE:

• Alternatively, the pudding can be steamed for about 1.5 hours, as mentioned in the recipe.

Cottage Pudding is a delightful dessert with a rich history, offering a glimpse into the culinary traditions of yesteryears. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors that have stood the test of time.