How to cook English Summer Pudding

English Summer Pudding is a traditional British dessert that celebrates the fresh, seasonal flavors of summer berries. It is a chilled, no-bake dessert made by layering and encasing a mixture of ripe berries—such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries—in slices of soft white bread. The bread acts as a neutral wrapper, absorbing the juices and flavors from the berries.

English Summer Pudding in the photo.

Ingredients:

• 500g (about 1 lb) mixed berries (such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)
• 100g (1/2 cup) caster sugar (superfine sugar)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 large loaf of white bread (preferably soft, sliced or whole)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Berries:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, caster sugar, and lemon juice.
   • Gently toss to coat the berries evenly.
   • Cover and let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the berries to release their juices.

2. Line the Mold:

   • Choose a large, round pudding mold or a deep bowl.
   • Cut the crusts off the slices of bread.
   • Line the mold with overlapping slices of bread, ensuring all sides are covered and the bread extends over the edges. This will be the "wrapper" for the pudding.

3. Fill with Berries:

   • Drain the berry mixture, reserving the juice.
   • Spoon the berries into the bread-lined mold, pressing down gently to pack them in.
   • Pour some of the reserved berry juice over the berries to keep them moist and add flavor.

4. Cover and Chill:

   • Fold the overhanging bread slices over the top of the berries.
   • Place a plate or a weight on top to press everything down.
   • Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the pudding to set.

5. Serve:

   • To unmold, briefly dip the mold in warm water to loosen.
   • Invert onto a serving plate.
   • Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
   • Serve slices with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips:

• Use the freshest berries available for the best flavor.
• You can vary the berries depending on what's in season or your preference.
• For a more sophisticated twist, add a splash of elderflower cordial to the berry mixture.

Enjoy your classic English Summer Pudding — a delightful celebration of seasonal fruits!