Quick & Easy Barefoot Contessa Grapenut Pudding Recipe

Grape-nut pudding represents a nostalgic dessert that blends creamy textures with crunchy cereal undertones, creating a comforting treat that sparks memories of traditional home cooking.

Generations have celebrated this simple yet sophisticated dessert for its unexpected depth of flavor and remarkable versatility.

Smooth custard layers intertwine with nutty cereal pieces, offering a delightful contrast in every spoonful.

Humble ingredients transform into an elegant dessert that feels both rustic and refined.

Rich dairy components provide a luxurious base that complements the distinctive crunch of Grape-Nuts.

Minimal preparation makes this pudding accessible for home cooks seeking a delectable sweet experience.

The result promises a delightful culinary journey that balances classic techniques with modern sensibilities: prepare to be delighted.

Different Spins on Contessa Grapenut Pudding

• Tropical Paradise Pudding: Replace Grape-Nuts with toasted coconut flakes and add a splash of rum for a Caribbean-inspired dessert. Garnish with fresh mango chunks for extra tropical flair.
• Chocolate Lover's Dream: Incorporate cocoa powder into the wet ingredients and mix in dark chocolate chips. Top with chocolate shavings and a drizzle of chocolate sauce when serving.
• Spiced Autumn Comfort: Mix in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to the dry ingredients. Fold in diced apples or pumpkin puree for a cozy fall-inspired version of the pudding.
• Nutty Crunch Edition: Swap half the Grape-Nuts with chopped pecans or almonds. Add a maple syrup glaze on top after baking to enhance the nutty profile and create a rich, caramelized finish.

Reflecting on Contessa Grapenut Pudding

Grape-Nuts pudding whispers nostalgia from Ina Garten’s kitchen, blending creamy comfort with crunchy texture.

Classic New England charm emerges through each spoonful of this rich, custardy delight.

Sophisticated simplicity shines in this humble dessert that transforms humble ingredients into culinary magic.

Family gatherings and warm memories dance within its silky layers.

Sweet memories flow from generations of home cooks who cherished such comforting recipes.

Readers who crave connection with traditional American cuisine – click that share button, sprinkle comments like Grape-Nuts, and spread deliciousness across your social circles!

Why Contessa Grapenut Pudding Is a Classic

• Dive into Nostalgic Comfort: This Grape-Nuts pudding transports you back to homey kitchen memories with its classic, warm custardy texture that feels like a hug from grandma's recipe book.
• Master Simple Baking Magic: Incredibly easy to prepare with just a few basic ingredients, this recipe transforms ordinary Grape-Nuts cereal into a sophisticated dessert using a genius water bath technique that ensures smooth, creamy perfection.
• Versatile Dessert Wonder: Perfect for multiple occasions from casual family dinners to elegant potlucks, this pudding can be served warm or chilled, making it an adaptable treat that suits any mood or gathering.
• Wholesome Ingredient Alchemy: Creates a surprisingly luxurious dessert from humble pantry staples like Grape-Nuts, proving that delicious comfort food doesn't require complicated or expensive ingredients.

Essential Ingredients for Contessa Grapenut Pudding

Main Ingredients:

• Milk: Rich base that helps create smooth, creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness and depth to the pudding.
• Eggs: Essential binding agent that helps set the pudding.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides warm, sweet flavor enhancement.

• Grape-Nuts Cereal: Signature ingredient that gives unique texture and nutty taste, choose fresh crispy cereal.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel-like sweetness and helps create golden color.
• Salt: Balances and elevates overall flavor profile.

• Warm Water: Used for creating gentle water bath for even baking.
• Butter or Cooking Spray: Helps grease pan to prevent sticking, ensures easy pudding removal.

How to Prepare Contessa Grapenut Pudding

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a cozy 325°F. Grab an 8-inch round cake pan (at least 2 inches deep) and give it a generous butter or cooking spray coating.

Step 2: Create Creamy Liquid Base

• Milk
• Heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• Vanilla extract

Mix until everything looks smooth and silky.

Step 3: Blend Crunchy and Sweet Elements

• Grape-Nuts cereal
• Brown sugar
• Salt

Stir until all ingredients dance together perfectly.

Step 4: Set Up Magic Baking Method

Pour your pudding mixture into the prepared pan. Find a larger baking pan and create a water bath by filling it with warm water, reaching about 3/4 up the sides of your pudding pan. This gentle cooking technique ensures a creamy, even texture.

Step 5: Bake and Rest

Slide the pans into the oven and bake for 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. After baking, let the pudding rest for 15 to 30 minutes. For a chilled version, allow it to cool completely and then refrigerate.

Tips for Contessa Grapenut Pudding Success

• Toast Cereal Magic: Heat Grape-Nuts in a dry skillet until golden brown, releasing deeper nutty aromas and creating a more complex flavor profile for the pudding.
• Milk Swap Brilliance: Replace dairy with coconut or almond milk to craft a creamy, allergy-friendly dessert without sacrificing rich texture.
• Chill and Store Smart: Refrigerate pudding in an airtight container for up to 4 days, protecting its moisture and preventing unwanted flavor absorption.
• Temperature Transformation: Warm the pudding slightly and crown with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
• Soaking Secret: Allow Grape-Nuts to rest in wet ingredients for 10-15 minutes, softening the cereal and ensuring a more tender, luxurious pudding texture.

Safekeeping Contessa Grapenut Pudding

• Vacuum Seal Method: Lock in freshness by using a vacuum sealer to remove air completely. Press out excess air from the storage container, creating an airtight seal that preserves the pudding's texture and prevents freezer burn.
• Portion Freezing Technique: Divide the pudding into individual serving sizes before freezing. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. This approach allows you to thaw only what you need, keeping the rest perfectly preserved.
• Glass Container Storage: Transfer the pudding to a clean glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Glass prevents flavor transfer and maintains the pudding's original taste better than plastic. Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the pudding's surface before sealing to minimize air exposure and prevent moisture loss.

Barefoot Contessa Grapenut Pudding Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Barefoot Contessa’s Grapenut Pudding brings nostalgic New England comfort to dessert tables with creamy custard and crunchy texture. Hearty and homemade, this sweet treat will transport you to charming coastal kitchens with its rich, satisfying warmth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Dairy Ingredients:

• 2 cups (454g / 16 fluid ounces) milk
• 1 cup (227g / 8 fluid ounces) cream (half-and-half, light, whipping, or heavy cream)
• 3 large eggs

Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:

• ⅓ to ½ cup (70g to 106g) light or dark brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons (8g) vanilla extract

Texture and Seasoning Components:

• ¾ cup (85g) Grape-Nuts cereal
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 325°F (163°C) and positioning the rack in the middle. Thoroughly coat an 8-inch round cake pan (20.32 centimeters) with butter or non-stick cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage.
2. Create a smooth liquid base by vigorously whisking together whole milk, heavy cream, large eggs, and pure vanilla extract in a spacious mixing bowl until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
3. Introduce dry components by gently folding Grape-Nuts cereal, dark brown sugar, and kosher salt into the liquid mixture. Stir comprehensively to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly integrated and no dry pockets remain.
4. Transfer the complete pudding mixture into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to spread evenly. Position the filled pan inside a larger roasting pan, then carefully pour warm water around the sides until it reaches approximately 3/4 of the way up the cake pan’s exterior.
5. Carefully slide the water bath setup into the preheated oven. Bake for 55-65 minutes, periodically checking doneness by inserting a clean toothpick into the center – it should emerge without any wet batter clinging to it.
6. Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and water bath. Allow the dessert to rest and stabilize at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, which helps the texture set properly. For a chilled version, refrigerate after complete cooling.

Notes

• Elevate your dessert with a nostalgic twist using Grape-Nuts for an unexpected crunchy texture.
• Water bath method creates a luxuriously smooth pudding without any baking mishaps.
• Overnight chilling intensifies the pudding’s rich, comforting flavors for maximum deliciousness.
• Brown sugar infuses a deep caramel warmth that perfectly complements the toasty cereal notes.
• Room temperature ingredients guarantee a silky-smooth mixing process and consistent pudding base.
• Whip up this simple comfort dessert that celebrates classic home-style baking with minimal effort.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg