We’ve always loved experimenting with unexpected ingredients, and our olive oil pudding recipe is a delightful surprise that blends creamy textures with the fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil. Originating from Mediterranean influences, it’s a modern take on traditional desserts that swaps butter for this heart-healthy fat.
This simple yet elegant treat proves you don’t need complex methods to create something special. We’re confident it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, offering a burst of flavor that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
For our olive oil pudding recipe—a modern Mediterranean-inspired twist—we’ve curated a simple list of high-quality ingredients that highlight the heart-healthy benefits of extra virgin olive oil. We’ll order them as they appear in the preparation process, ensuring each one contributes to the creamy texture and vibrant flavors we love.
- Extra virgin olive oil: ½ cup (measured at room temperature for easy incorporation, as it’s the base that adds a fruity, nutty essence to our pudding)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (fine-grained for quick dissolving when mixed with the olive oil to create a smooth base)
- Large eggs: 3 (lightly beaten before adding, to help emulsify and thicken our mixture)
- Whole milk: 2 cups (chilled, for a creamy consistency that balances the olive oil’s richness)
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup (sifted to avoid lumps, serving as the thickening agent for our pudding’s perfect set)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (pure variety for authentic flavor enhancement, stirred in at the end of mixing)
- Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon (freshly grated from one lemon, to add a bright, citrusy note that complements the olive oil)
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (fine sea salt, to enhance the overall flavors without overpowering)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients, we guide you through creating this creamy olive oil pudding with its fruity Mediterranean flavors. Follow these straightforward steps for a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the heart-healthy benefits of extra virgin olive oil.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, let’s ensure all components are prepped for optimal results. Start by measuring and preparing each item as follows:
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use ½ cup at room temperature to capture its full fruity essence.
- Granulated sugar: Measure 1 cup of fine sugar to create a smooth base.
- Large eggs: Lightly beat 3 eggs in a bowl for effective emulsification.
- Whole milk: Chill 2 cups in the refrigerator to enhance the pudding’s creaminess.
- Cornstarch: Sift ¼ cup to avoid lumps and serve as a reliable thickening agent.
- Pure vanilla extract: Measure 1 teaspoon for a rich flavor boost.
- Lemon zest: Grate 1 tablespoon fresh from a lemon to add a bright citrusy note.
- Fine sea salt: Add ¼ teaspoon to balance and enhance the overall flavors.
This preparation sets the stage for a seamless cooking process.
Mix the Batter
With ingredients ready, we combine them into a luscious batter that promises a silky texture. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the 1 cup of fine granulated sugar with the 3 lightly beaten large eggs until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, which takes about 2 minutes by hand or 1 minute with an electric mixer. Gradually pour in the ½ cup of room-temperature extra virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk, allowing the fruity notes to infuse evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of chilled whole milk, ¼ cup of sifted cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt until fully blended and smooth. Slowly incorporate this milk mixture into the egg-olive oil blend, stirring gently to form a homogenous batter that evokes the creamy richness of Mediterranean desserts.
Cook the Pudding
Now we transform the batter into a velvety pudding by cooking it to perfection. Pour the batter into a medium saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a silicone spatula to prevent sticking. As the mixture warms, it will thicken gradually—expect this to take about 10-12 minutes until it reaches a pudding-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Once ready, remove from heat and let it cool slightly in the pan; at this stage, the pudding should release an irresistible aroma of citrusy lemon zest blended with the subtle fruitiness of extra virgin olive oil, creating a dessert that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
Chill and Serve
To achieve the ideal texture, we chill the pudding for the best flavor development. Transfer the cooked pudding to individual serving bowls or a large dish, then cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set, allowing the flavors to meld into a cool, creamy delight. When serving, garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for an enhanced visual appeal and taste; this step elevates the pudding into a refreshing, heart-healthy treat perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed sharing this olive oil pudding recipe and know it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. It’s a fresh way to savor healthy ingredients while indulging in rich flavors.
Let’s keep exploring Mediterranean-inspired treats—they’re not only delicious but also nourish our bodies and souls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is olive oil pudding?
Olive oil pudding is a modern twist on traditional desserts, inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. It uses extra virgin olive oil instead of butter for a creamy texture and fruity flavor, making it a heart-healthy treat. This simple recipe combines everyday ingredients to create an elegant, nutritious pudding that’s easy to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for olive oil pudding?
You’ll need ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 cup granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, ¼ cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. These high-quality ingredients are selected for their roles in achieving a silky, flavorful texture, and should be prepared in order for best results.
How do you make olive oil pudding?
Start by mixing the ingredients to form a batter, then cook over medium-low heat until thickened. Chill for at least 2 hours to set. The process is straightforward: prepare ingredients first, combine for a smooth mix, cook slowly, and garnish with olive oil and lemon zest before serving. Total time is about 15 minutes prep plus chilling.
Is olive oil pudding healthy?
Yes, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional puddings since it uses extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in heart-healthy fats. Ingredients like whole milk and eggs provide nutrients, while lemon zest adds vitamins. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a flavorful, nutritious dessert option.
How should I serve olive oil pudding?
Serve chilled, garnished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon zest for a refreshing touch. It’s perfect as a light dessert for any occasion, enhancing its fruity and citrusy flavors. Pair with fresh fruit or nuts for added texture, making it an elegant, heart-healthy treat.
Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version, or use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness. However, keep extra virgin olive oil as the base for its unique flavor and health benefits. Always test changes, as they might affect texture—aim for similar consistencies to maintain the pudding’s creaminess.