Introduction

German cuisine is well known for its rich and hearty desserts, and German Prune Pudding is a perfect example of this tradition. This classic dessert combines the deep, caramelized sweetness of prunes with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. The addition of a soft bread pudding roll, infused with the essence of the stewed prunes, makes it a truly unique and satisfying treat.

This pudding is often enjoyed warm during colder months but can also be served cold, making it a versatile dessert for any time of the year. Whether you are looking for a nostalgic dessert from German heritage or simply wish to try something new, this German Prune Pudding is a must-try!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pudding:

For the Prune Stew:

• 1 pound of prunes (dried plums)
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 cups water

For the Bread Pudding Roll:

• ½ loaf of bread (stale, soaked in water and squeezed dry)
• 3 eggs
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon cloves
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For Baking & Finishing:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon molasses

Steps to Cook German Prune Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Prune Mixture

1. In a large saucepan, add 1 pound of prunes, 2 cups of water, sliced lemon, cinnamon stick, and ½ cup of brown sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the prunes are plump and soft.
3. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors are well infused.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Pudding Roll

1. Take ½ loaf of stale bread, soak it in water for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture and mash it into a soft dough.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs and add cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.
3. Sift together 1 cup of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder, then mix it into the egg mixture.
4. Add the squeezed-out bread and mix well until a dough-like consistency is formed.

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Take a baking dish and pour in the cooked prunes along with their syrup.
3. Shape the bread mixture into a large roll and place it in the center of the prunes.
4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of brown sugar over the pudding and drizzle 1 tablespoon of molasses for extra depth of flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

1. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the bread pudding is firm and golden brown.
2. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to caramelize slightly.

Step 5: Serve the German Prune Pudding

1. Let the pudding cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Serve it warm with whipped cream or cold with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!

Benefits of German Prune Pudding

• Rich in Fiber: Prunes are packed with fiber, aiding digestion and gut health.
• Natural Sweetness: The natural sugars in prunes reduce the need for excessive refined sugar.
• Warm & Comforting: Perfect for cold days, this pudding is a warm and satisfying dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: It can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Prunes and spices like cinnamon and cloves contain powerful antioxidants that benefit overall health.

Fun Facts About German Prune Pudding

• German Influence: Prunes have been a staple in European desserts for centuries, particularly in Germany and Austria, where stewed fruits are commonly used in baking.
• Healthy History: In medieval times, prunes were considered a delicacy and were used in medicinal remedies due to their digestive benefits.
• Holiday Favorite: This dish is often enjoyed during the winter months and holidays, especially in German households.
• Prunes & Longevity: Studies suggest that eating prunes can contribute to bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis!