Steamed Raisin Puff – A Vintage Delight (VRP 012)

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This recipe for Steamed Raisin Puff was found in a 1951 issue of Household Magazine, which was a popular publication for homemakers in the mid-20th century. It reflects the simple yet comforting desserts that were common in that era. Steamed puddings and cakes were a regular feature in many kitchens, especially when ovens were not always available or reliable. The technique of steaming provides a moist texture to the dish, making it perfect for a warm, comforting dessert. This steamed raisin puff is soft, subtly sweet, and studded with raisins, a classic ingredient in many vintage recipes.

The Steamed Raisin Puff is closest to a steamed pudding or sponge cake. It shares similarities with traditional British-style steamed puddings, which are moist, dense cakes cooked using steam rather than baked in the oven. The process of steaming creates a texture similar to sponge cakes, but with more moisture, making it a cross between a pudding and a cake. Unlike typical puddings, it has no custard or sauce base, but its soft, spongy texture places it in the steamed dessert category.

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Steamed Raisin Puff

Food History

Steamed puddings have a long history, dating back to at least the 17th century in Europe. They were traditionally made in a pudding basin and steamed for hours, often served during holiday feasts. Over time, the recipes became simpler and more accessible, with variations like the steamed raisin puff emerging in the early 20th century. By the 1950s, this dessert style was a popular choice for households with limited access to baking ovens. Using a coffee can as a makeshift steamer also highlights the resourcefulness of cooks at the time, finding ways to make the most of what they had on hand.

Timeline

• 17th Century: Steamed puddings gain popularity in Europe.
• 19th Century: Recipes for steamed desserts begin appearing in American cookbooks.
• 1951: This particular recipe is published in Household Magazine.
• Modern Day: Steamed puddings and cakes, like this raisin puff, are enjoyed as a nostalgic treat, reminding many of simpler times.

Recipe Discussion

The Steamed Raisin Puff combines simple pantry staples to create a dessert with a moist and tender crumb. The technique of steaming the raisins first adds a layer of moisture and sweetness to the dish. Raisins, with their natural sugars, add a subtle caramel flavor, and their chewy texture contrasts nicely with the soft, spongy cake. The blend of flour, baking powder, and sugar is typical of many mid-century desserts—simple, but effective. The shortening helps the puff retain moisture during the steaming process, ensuring a rich texture.

Steaming the batter in a coffee can is an old-fashioned method, but one that works just as well today. It’s a nod to the frugality and resourcefulness of cooks from past generations, who used everyday items to achieve delicious results. The waxed paper covering keeps moisture inside while preventing water from seeping into the batter, a key step to ensure the dessert’s success.

Preparation Tips

• Use a Proper Steamer Setup: If you don’t have a traditional steamer, use a large pot with a fitted lid. Place a trivet or an inverted plate in the bottom to keep the can elevated, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the batter.
• Keep the Lid On: Avoid lifting the lid during steaming, as this can cause the dessert to collapse or cook unevenly.
• Waxed Paper Seal: Make sure the waxed paper is securely tied around the top of the coffee can to prevent water from getting into the batter.

Recommended Kitchen Items

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• Steamer Pot: A large steamer pot is ideal for creating moist, perfectly steamed desserts.
• Coffee Can or Steamer Molds: Using an empty coffee can is a fun, vintage touch, but steamer molds can also do the trick.
• Waxed Paper: Necessary to cover the can and seal in moisture while the pudding steams.

Serving Suggestions

• With Whipped Cream: Serve the Steamed Raisin Puff with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness.
• Vanilla Custard: A pour of warm vanilla custard over the puff would make a luxurious finish.
• Afternoon Tea: This dessert is perfect for an afternoon tea or served with coffee for a mid-morning treat.

More Vintage Recipes

We have lots of recipes on the site that may be of interest to you. Use the links below to view other recipes similar to this Steamed Raisin Puff recipe.

• Dessert Recipes
• Household Magazine Recipes
• Puff Recipes
• Recipes With Raisins
• Steamed Puff Recipes

A Time-Honored Dessert

This Steamed Raisin Puff is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods can result in a delicious dessert. Its soft, moist texture and sweet raisin flavor make it a comforting dish, perfect for a family meal or special occasion. Whether served with cream, custard, or simply on its own, this vintage recipe remains a nostalgic and delightful treat.

Vintage Recipe Box 012

There are many fun recipes to read in the box this recipe for Steamed Raisin Puff was with. Click here to view all of VRP012 – Wood Box recipes.

Steamed Raisin Puff Recipe