Chokecherry Pudding Recipe

Chokecherry pudding is a delightful, old-fashioned dessert made from the tart and flavorful chokecherry fruit. This recipe has been passed down through generations, loved for its rich taste and smooth texture. If you’ve never tried making chokecherry pudding, you’re in for a treat. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you get the perfect pudding every time.

Chokecherries, known for their deep reddish-purple hue and slightly astringent taste, are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. When cooked properly, their natural tartness balances beautifully with sweet ingredients, making them ideal for puddings, jams, and syrups.

Fun Fact: Chokecherries have been used by Indigenous communities for centuries, often dried and mixed with meat and fat to make pemmican, a traditional survival food.

In this article, you’ll discover everything from the health benefits of chokecherries to a detailed step-by-step recipe for making the best chokecherry pudding at home.

What is Chokecherry Pudding?

Chokecherry pudding is a traditional dessert made from ripe chokecherries, a small, tart fruit commonly found in North America. The pudding is thickened using flour or cornstarch and sweetened to balance the natural tartness of the fruit. It has a deep, rich flavor with a smooth texture, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate homemade fruit-based desserts.

This dish has historical roots in Indigenous and pioneer cuisine. Native American tribes used chokecherries in various ways, including in puddings and sauces, while early settlers adapted the fruit into their own recipes. Over time, chokecherry pudding became a cherished comfort food, often served with cream, honey, or a dusting of sugar.

Did You Know? Chokecherries contain natural tannins, which give them a slightly bitter taste when eaten raw. Cooking them enhances their flavor and removes the astringency, making them perfect for puddings and jams.

Chokecherry pudding is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a dessert that satisfies both taste and health.

Health Benefits of Chokecherries

Chokecherries are more than just a flavorful ingredient for puddings and jams; they are packed with nutrients that offer various health benefits. These small, dark berries have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, valued for their high antioxidant content and potential healing properties.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Chokecherries contain high levels of anthocyanins, the compounds responsible for their deep red and purple color. These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

2. Supports Heart Health

The flavonoids found in chokecherries promote heart health by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. Regular consumption of antioxidant-rich fruits like chokecherries may lower blood pressure and support overall cardiovascular function.

3. Boosts the Immune System

Chokecherries are a great source of vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. Vitamin C helps the body fight infections, promotes healthy skin, and aids in wound healing.

4. Aids Digestion

Chokecherries have been traditionally used to support digestive health. Their fiber content helps regulate bowel movements, while natural compounds in the fruit may soothe stomach discomfort and reduce bloating.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The polyphenols in chokecherries have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This makes them beneficial for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or chronic pain.

Interesting Fact: Chokecherries were often brewed into teas and tonics by Native American tribes to treat colds, fevers, and digestive issues.

While chokecherries are highly nutritious, they should always be consumed after cooking, as their raw seeds and pits contain small amounts of naturally occurring cyanogenic compounds. Cooking neutralizes these compounds, making the fruit safe to eat.

Essential Ingredients for Chokecherry Pudding

Making chokecherry pudding requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. The key is to balance the tartness of the chokecherries with the right amount of sweetness and thickening agents to achieve a smooth, velvety texture.

Chokecherry Pudding

Emily

A rich and flavorful pudding made with chokecherries, sugar, and flour, offering a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Cooling Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Saucepan for cooking chokecherries
• 1 Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• 1 Whisk for stirring the pudding
• 1 Strainer for removing chokecherry pits

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups chokecherries washed
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup flour or cornstarch for a smoother texture
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional

Instructions

 

• In a saucepan, bring chokecherries and water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the berries soften.
• Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove pits and skins, pressing to extract all the juice.
• Return the strained juice to the saucepan over low heat.
• In a separate bowl, mix sugar, flour, and salt. Slowly whisk this mixture into the warm chokecherry juice, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Continue stirring over medium heat until the pudding thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
• Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.

Video

Notes

– For a richer texture, add a splash of heavy cream or butter before serving.

– Serve with whipped cream or over biscuits for extra indulgence.

– If fresh chokecherries are unavailable, use frozen or chokecherry syrup as a substitute.

Keyword chokecherry pudding​

Tip: If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider using honey instead of sugar. Honey pairs beautifully with the tartness of chokecherries and enhances the pudding’s natural richness.

These ingredients create a pudding that is rich in flavor, smooth in texture, and perfectly balanced in sweetness. Next, we’ll go through the step-by-step process to make the best chokecherry pudding at home.

Serving Suggestions

Chokecherry pudding is delicious on its own, but you can enhance its flavor and presentation with a few simple additions. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, these ideas will elevate your pudding to the next level.

1. Classic Presentation

• Serve the pudding warm in small bowls with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
• Let it cool to room temperature and enjoy it as a thick, creamy dessert.

2. Toppings for Extra Flavor

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich pudding.
• Fresh Berries: Top with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a burst of freshness.
• Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch and complement the pudding’s tartness.
• Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: For a natural sweetness boost, drizzle a small amount over the top before serving.

3. Pairing with Other Desserts

• Shortbread Cookies: Serve the pudding alongside buttery shortbread cookies for a delightful textural contrast.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm chokecherry pudding paired with vanilla ice cream creates a comforting dessert combination.
• Pound Cake or Biscuits: Spoon the pudding over slices of pound cake or biscuits for a unique variation.

Tip: If you prefer a firmer pudding, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. It will set more like a custard and hold its shape better.

Variations of Chokecherry Pudding

Chokecherry pudding is a versatile dessert that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Dairy-Free Chokecherry Pudding

For a dairy-free version, simply omit the butter or replace it with a plant-based alternative such as:

• Coconut oil
• Vegan butter
• Almond or oat milk for a creamier texture

2. Chokecherry Pudding with a Creamy Twist

If you enjoy a richer, silkier pudding, try adding:

• ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after thickening the pudding
• A tablespoon of cream cheese for a slight tang and extra smooth texture

3. Honey-Sweetened Chokecherry Pudding

For a more natural sweetness, replace granulated sugar with:

• ½ cup of honey
• ⅓ cup of maple syrup
• ¼ cup of agave nectar

Tip: When using honey or syrup, reduce the water slightly to maintain the pudding’s thickness.

4. Chokecherry and Apple Pudding

Chokecherries and apples pair beautifully together. Try this variation:

• Replace ½ cup of water with fresh apple juice
• Add a pinch of cinnamon and a splash of lemon juice for a deeper flavor

5. Spiced Chokecherry Pudding

For a warm, autumnal twist, mix in:

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of allspice

These spices add depth and complement the natural tartness of the chokecherries.

6. Chokecherry Pudding Pie

Turn your pudding into a pie filling by:

• Pouring the finished pudding into a pre-baked pie crust
• Chilling it for at least 3 hours before serving
• Topping it with whipped cream or meringue for an elegant dessert

Fun Fact: Chokecherries were often dried and ground into flour by Indigenous tribes, making them a staple ingredient in many early recipes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with a simple recipe, small mistakes can affect the final texture and flavor of chokecherry pudding. Here are some common errors and how to fix them.

1. Using Raw Chokecherries Without Cooking Them

• Problem: Chokecherry seeds contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic if consumed in large amounts.
• Solution: Always cook the chokecherries and strain out the seeds before using the juice in your pudding.

2. Pudding Turns Out Too Thin

• Problem: The pudding does not thicken properly.
• Causes:
  • Not enough cornstarch or flour was used.
  • The mixture was not cooked long enough.
• Solution:
  • Make sure to use the correct amount of thickener.
  • Simmer the pudding until it coats the back of a spoon before removing it from heat.

3. Pudding Becomes Too Thick or Lumpy

• Problem: The pudding turns out too firm or contains lumps.
• Causes:
  • Too much cornstarch or flour was added.
  • The thickener was not properly mixed before being added to the hot liquid.
• Solution:
  • Always dissolve cornstarch or flour in a small amount of cold water before adding it to the hot chokecherry juice.
  • Stir continuously while cooking to prevent clumping.

4. Overpowering Tartness

• Problem: The pudding is too sour or astringent.
• Causes:
  • Not enough sweetener was added.
  • The chokecherries were not fully ripe.
• Solution:
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
  • Use fully ripened chokecherries for a naturally balanced flavor.

5. Burnt or Scorched Pudding

• Problem: The pudding sticks to the bottom of the pan and develops a burnt taste.
• Causes:
  • Cooking over high heat.
  • Not stirring frequently enough.
• Solution:
  • Use medium to low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
  • If using a thick-bottomed pan, it will distribute heat more evenly.

Tip: If your pudding has a slight burnt taste, transfer it to a clean pot immediately and avoid scraping the bottom where the burnt layer may be.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your chokecherry pudding turns out perfectly every time.

FAQs About Chokecherry Pudding

Here are some frequently asked questions about chokecherry pudding, along with expert answers to help you make the perfect dessert.

Conclusion

Chokecherry pudding is a delightful and traditional dessert that showcases the bold, tart flavors of chokecherries in a smooth and creamy dish. With its rich history, health benefits, and simple preparation, it is a must-try for anyone who enjoys homemade fruit-based desserts. It also makes for a unique and flavorful breakfast option, especially when paired with nuts, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.

By following the step-by-step guide, avoiding common mistakes, and exploring variations, you can create a pudding that suits your taste preferences. Whether served warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or fresh berries, this pudding is a versatile treat perfect for any occasion.

If you haven’t made chokecherry pudding before, now is the perfect time to give it a try. Enjoy the deep, fruity flavor and the nostalgia of this time-honored recipe, whether as a comforting dessert or a nutritious breakfast.