Kasha Breakfast Pudding: A Hearty and Nutritious Morning Delight
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Kasha Breakfast Pudding is a unique and comforting dish that combines the wholesome goodness of buckwheat groats with warm spices and fresh fruit. Found in an old recipe collection from The Inn on the Common in Craftsbury Common, Vermont, this breakfast pudding offers a delightful start to the day. With its creamy texture, fruity flavor, and subtle spiciness, it’s a breakfast treat that is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Particularly wonderful on chilly mornings, this dish brings warmth, health, and a touch of sweetness to your table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 9 cups |
| Dried Kasha (buckwheat groats) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Dark Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground Ginger | 1 tsp |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Kosher Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Butter | 6 tbsp |
| Granny Smith Apples | 3, peeled and chopped |
| Golden Raisins | 1/2 cup |
| Dark Raisins | 1/2 cup |
| Dried Cranberries | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 6, beaten |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 294.7 kcal |
| Fat Content | 15.2 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 8.7 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 146.6 mg |
| Sodium Content | 242.6 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 32.1 g |
| Fiber Content | 2.3 g |
| Sugar Content | 18.5 g |
| Protein Content | 9.9 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Kasha Mixture
In a large saucepan, combine 9 cups of milk, 1 1/2 cups of dried buckwheat groats (kasha), 1/4 cup of dark brown sugar, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1 tsp of ground ginger, 1 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 tsp of kosher salt. Stir the ingredients together to combine thoroughly. -
Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, continue to cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally to ensure the milk doesn’t scorch. -
Add Butter and Fruit
Reduce the heat to low, and add 6 tablespoons of butter, stirring until it melts into the mixture. Next, stir in 3 peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples, 1/2 cup of golden raisins, 1/2 cup of dark raisins, and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Allow the fruit to warm and soften in the mixture for 2-3 minutes. -
Incorporate the Eggs
Gradually blend in 6 beaten eggs, being cautious not to “cook” the eggs immediately. To avoid scrambling, it’s best to temper the eggs by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture to the beaten eggs before stirring them back into the larger pot. Stir constantly to ensure the eggs are incorporated evenly and the mixture thickens without curdling. -
Prepare for Baking
Grease individual baking dishes or custard cups with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Carefully ladle the pudding mixture into these prepared dishes, dividing it evenly. Be sure to leave a little room at the top of each dish for expansion during baking. -
Set Up the Water Bath
To ensure the pudding bakes evenly and maintains its creamy texture, place the filled dishes in a larger, deep baking pan. Fill the pan with 2-3 inches of hot water to create a gentle water bath. This method helps regulate the temperature and prevents the pudding from drying out. -
Bake the Pudding
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the baking pan with the individual pudding cups into the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The pudding is ready when the center is set, and a knife inserted near the edge of the pudding comes out clean. If necessary, you can bake a bit longer, checking every 5 minutes after the 30-minute mark. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the pudding has fully set, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This Kasha Breakfast Pudding is perfect as is, or you can top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hearty breakfast pudding is not only nutritious but also versatile. The combination of fruit, spices, and kasha creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it the perfect dish to brighten your morning. The buckwheat groats provide a healthy dose of fiber and protein, while the fruit adds a natural sweetness that balances the spice. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting snack on a winter day, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Additionally, this recipe is great for kids and adults alike, offering a healthy way to start the day without resorting to sugary cereals. Plus, with only a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home.
Enjoy your Kasha Breakfast Pudding, and let the cozy warmth of this dish set the tone for a fantastic day ahead!
