Baked Lemon Pudding

Name: Baked Lemon Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 large eggs (separated); 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Published: February 26, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Zesty Flavor: The use of fresh lemon juice and zest gives this pudding a vibrant flavor that will brighten up any meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm straight from the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Impressive Presentation: The golden top and fluffy texture make it an eye-catching dessert that will impress your guests.
Healthy Indulgence: At just 182 calories per serving, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling guilty.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to make Baked Lemon Pudding.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish
Measuring cups
Electric mixer (optional)
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine dry and wet ingredients without mess.
Electric mixer: This tool saves time when beating egg whites to stiff peaks, ensuring a light texture in your pudding.
Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently, preventing the loss of air that keeps your pudding fluffy.

Ingredients

For the Base Mixture

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Meringue Topping

3 large eggs, separated
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For Serving

Powdered sugar (for serving)

How to Make Baked Lemon Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pudding bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest while whisking until smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl:
1. Beat the egg yolks until smooth.
2. Gradually mix them into the lemon mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Make the Meringue Topping

In a clean bowl:
1. Beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish:
– Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.

Enjoy your Baked Lemon Pudding warm or chilled, dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch!

How to Serve Baked Lemon Pudding

Baked Lemon Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings a refreshing citrus flavor to any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this zesty treat.

Classic Presentation

Serve warm: Enjoy the pudding straight from the oven for a comforting experience.
Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Fruit Garnish

Fresh berries: Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for added color and flavor.
Candied lemon slices: Decorate with thinly sliced candied lemons for a decorative touch and extra zest.

Ice Cream Pairing

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a perfect contrast to the tartness of the lemon pudding.
Lemon sorbet: Enhance the lemon flavor by serving with lemon sorbet for a refreshing twist.

Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Flavored whipped cream: Consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to your whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Baked Lemon Pudding

Creating the perfect Baked Lemon Pudding requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success every time you bake it.

Room temperature ingredients: Use eggs and milk at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix: Gently fold the egg whites into the lemon mixture, as overmixing can deflate the fluffiness.
Grease the dish well: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the pudding in the oven; it should be golden on top and set in the center when done.
Cool before serving: Let it cool slightly before serving, as this helps set the pudding and enhances flavors.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different citrus zest or herbs like mint for an exciting twist on traditional flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Lemon Pudding

Baked Lemon Pudding pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Light Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances sweetness.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned lightly allows the dessert’s flavor to shine without overpowering it.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy pudding.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory element that complements the zesty dessert.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs adds nutrition while staying mild enough not to overshadow the pudding.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits enhances sweetness and freshness alongside the pudding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Lemon Pudding can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause the pudding to undercook or overcook. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
Not Whipping Egg Whites Enough: Failing to beat egg whites until stiff peaks form will result in a dense pudding. Ensure your egg whites are whipped properly for a light texture.
Skipping the Lemon Zest: Leaving out lemon zest removes essential flavor from the pudding. Be sure to include it for that extra zesty kick.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk and eggs can affect the mixing process. Allow them to come to room temperature before use for better incorporation.
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can deflate the air from the whipped egg whites. Gently fold them into the mixture to maintain fluffiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Baked Lemon Pudding will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Lemon Pudding

You can freeze portions of Baked Lemon Pudding if needed.
Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion as it freezes.
Consume within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Lemon Pudding

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Lemon Pudding.

How do I make my Baked Lemon Pudding more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding more lemon zest or even experimenting with citrus blends like lime or orange zest.

Can I substitute the milk in Baked Lemon Pudding?

Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk as alternatives if you prefer plant-based options.

What is the best way to serve Baked Lemon Pudding?

Baked Lemon Pudding is delicious served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or accompanied by fresh berries.

How long does Baked Lemon Pudding last?

Properly stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days. If frozen, consume within 2 months for optimal taste.

Final Thoughts

Baked Lemon Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with bright flavors. Its lightness makes it perfect for any occasion, and you can easily customize it with different citrus fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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