25 May 2011

Cartmel Damson and Apple Crumble (Westmoreland Service Station) [By @Cinabar]



It was back last Christmas time when I first stumbled across the wonders of Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding. It was a rich and sweet dessert and was as every bit as tasty as you can imagine. The Cartmel brand has the slogan “The Home Of Sticky Toffee Pudding” which makes it a little difficult for them to branch out. Having said that I did spot this fine looking traditional pudding on the shelf, and couldn’t resist finding out what their take on damson and apple crumble would be.
It is a simple pre-made and oven cook dessert, and it came out of the oven looking really appetising. There is a good proportion of fruit in the crumble, and its striking red colour made it look pretty on the plate. The topping is thick too, and lovely and golden once cooked.
The flavour is quite a contrast from their Sticky Toffee as it is actually quite has a sharp, zingy fruit flavour. It is lovely and natural, but not as sweet as I was hoping and more damson than apple. The crumble part counters the sharpness as the crunchy topping adds a lovely sweetness to balance the flavour and a buttery aftertaste.
This pudding is very much aiming itself at the mature market, and would sit perfectly at the end of any dinner party. The flavour is fresh and fruity, but the tart tones may not appeal to a younger audience. If, like me, you have a very sweet tooth, I suggest a splash of custard to settle your sugar craving and to really make the most of the flavours.
By cinabar

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