Winter Spice Vanilla Pudding with Brandied Whipped Cream Recipe
A luxuriously creamy Winter Spice Vanilla Pudding infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, anise, and orange peel, finished with a splash of brandy and topped with brandied whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for cozy winter evenings and offers a rich, comforting flavor that balances warming spices with smooth vanilla and a hint of citrus.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Peel of 1 orange
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- 2 anise pods
- 4 allspice berries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or extract)
- 2 tsp brandy, or bourbon
For the Brandied Whipped Cream
- 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tsp powdered sugar
- Pinch salt
- 1 tsp brandy
Instructions
- Infuse the Cream: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup heavy whipping cream with orange peel, cloves, cinnamon stick, anise pods, and allspice berries. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then immediately remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature for 20-30 minutes to infuse the spices.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Egg Yolks: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add egg yolks and whisk until smooth, then gradually incorporate whole milk while continuing to whisk until fully combined.
- Strain and Combine Infused Cream: Strain the cooled spiced cream directly into the saucepan with the milk mixture, whisking to combine evenly.
- Cook the Pudding: Place the mixture over medium-low heat and stir constantly using a whisk and silicone spatula to scrape the pan bottom. Cook until the pudding starts to boil and thickens, indicating it is cooked through.
- Finish the Pudding: Remove from heat once boiling occurs. Strain the pudding into a bowl to remove lumps. Whisk in softened butter, vanilla bean paste, and brandy until smooth. Pour into serving dishes and serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
- Prepare the Brandied Whipped Cream: Using electric beaters or a whisk, whip 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gently whisk in 1 tsp brandy to taste.
- Serve: Top the cooled pudding with a dollop of brandied whipped cream for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Infusing the cream with spices creates a subtle but complex flavor base for the pudding.
- Straining the pudding after cooking ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
- You can substitute bourbon for brandy depending on preference.
- Vanilla bean paste offers a richer vanilla flavor compared to extract but both work well.
- For best results, serve the pudding chilled with the whipped cream on top, though warm or room temperature servings are delightful too.
Keywords: Winter Spice Vanilla Pudding, creamy pudding, spiced dessert, brandied whipped cream, comforting winter dessert
