If you’ve ever craved a dessert that wraps you in cozy warmth and bursts with rich, natural sweetness, then this Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe is just for you. This classic French Canadian treat perfectly combines the deep, luscious flavors of pure maple syrup with crunchy walnuts, all tucked into a tender, buttery pudding. Each bite melts in your mouth while offering that delightful contrast between gooey sauce and cakey texture. Whether you’re serving it for a comforting family dessert or impressing friends with a homemade indulgence, this Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe is wonderfully simple in its ingredients, yet each one is carefully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color. From the maple syrup that lends its signature sweetness to the tender crumb created by the flour and eggs, every component plays a crucial role.
- Pure maple syrup (1 1/4 cups): The heart of the dish, providing rich, natural sweetness and that unmistakable maple flavor.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup plus extra for greasing): Key for buttery richness and a golden crust when baked.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup): Enhances the caramel notes and deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): The base for the pudding’s tender, cakey texture.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the pudding rise beautifully and stay soft.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances all the sweetness and heightens flavors.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the smooth pudding.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Whipped with egg to lighten the pudding batter.
- Large egg (1): Provides structure and a tender crumb.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Keeps the batter moist and smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that complements the maple flavor.
How to Make Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously buttering a 9-inch square baking dish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, heavy cream, brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of butter. Stir gently as the mixture heats to a simmer, allowing the sugar to dissolve fully and the flavors to meld into a silky sauce. Remove from heat and carefully pour half of this luscious sauce into your prepared baking dish, creating the first layer of delight.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
While the sauce cools slightly, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped walnuts. The walnuts add both texture and earthy nuttiness that will wonderfully counterbalance the sweet sauce.
Step 3: Whip the Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar and egg until the mixture becomes light and fluffy – this aeration is essential for a tender pudding. Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract for moisture and aroma. Slowly fold in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix, just enough to incorporate everything evenly. The batter should be smooth, studded with walnut pieces.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Gently spread the batter over the maple sauce layer in your baking dish, ensuring an even layer without disturbing the sauce too much. Then, slowly and carefully pour the remaining maple sauce over the top—all the gooey goodness will sink beneath as it bakes, creating that iconic pudding chômeur texture. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and set, giving off that irresistible maple aroma.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the pudding to cool slightly. This resting period lets the sauce thicken just enough while retaining a warm, luscious consistency. Serve your Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe warm, spooning extra sauce from the edges for maximum indulgence.
How to Serve Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar over each serving to add a bit of texture and elegant presentation. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful addition that complements the rich maple flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
While this pudding shines as a standalone dessert, pairing it with a simple fresh fruit salad or lightly brewed coffee can create a well-rounded experience. The fruity freshness cuts through the richness and balances the sweetness, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch at your next dinner party. You can also drizzle warmed maple syrup or a caramel sauce on top to amplify the lusciousness. For a fun variation, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for subtle spiced warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dessert maintains its texture wonderfully, and the flavors often deepen after resting, making every bite just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
This pudding freezes well, too. Portion it into airtight containers or tightly wrap your baking dish with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can last up to one month. Keep in mind, the texture might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavor remains exceptional.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds or place the entire dish in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. This will revive the pudding’s gooey, syrupy life and make it taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts in this Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans make a wonderful substitute, offering a slightly sweeter and buttery crunch that pairs perfectly with the maple syrup.
Is this pudding best served warm or cold?
Warm is definitely best for this dish. The sauce is at its most luscious and the pudding’s texture is perfectly soft and gooey when served warm.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
It’s a bit challenging since the recipe relies on butter, cream, and eggs, but you can experiment with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
What grade of maple syrup should I use?
For a stronger maple flavor, use Grade B maple syrup. It’s darker and more robust, which enhances the dessert’s depth wonderfully.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to enjoy the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Maple Walnut Pudding Chômeur Recipe feels like inviting a little warmth and sweetness into your kitchen and heart. It’s that kind of dessert that feels timeless and comforting with every spoonful, reminding us that sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to create the most memorable moments. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find a new family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.
