Steamed Apple Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Prepare the apples and nuts and set aside.
2. 2
   In a large mixer bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar.
3. 3
   Add the molasses, egg, lemon zest and vanilla extract and blend.
4. 4
   In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients and add them to the butter mixture on low speed alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. 5
   Beat in the reserved apples and nuts and pour into a greased-and-floured seven-cup steamed pudding mold.
6. 6
   Cover tightly.
7. 7
   Place in a deep kettle atop a rack.
8. 8
   Add enough water to reach half-way up the side of the mold.
9. 9
   Bring the water to a boil and keep it at a brisk but not rolling boil, covered, for one-and-a-half hours.
10. 10
    Remove the mold from the kettle, take off the lid and allow the pudding to rest for 10 minutes.
11. 11
    Loosen the edges with a knife and tip the pudding onto a round platter.
12. 12
    Cut into wedges and serve hot with hard sauce flavored with Calvados or with creme anglaise.