Steamed Treacle Sponge Pudding Recipe

 

Steamed Treacle Sponge Pudding Recipe

If winter weather has you feeling like a deflated balloon, or if your mood is as grey as a rainy day, fear not! A delightful steamed treacle sponge is here to save the day. It’s quick to prepare, steams happily away without your supervision, and is the ultimate comfort food—think of it as a warm hug in dessert form!

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon black treacle
• 3 tablespoons golden syrup
• 6 oz (175 g) self-raising flour
• 1 rounded teaspoon baking powder
• 6 oz (175 g) softened butter
• 3 large eggs
• 6 oz (175 g) soft light brown sugar

To Serve:

• 3 extra tablespoons golden syrup
• Custard or crème fraîche

Equipment Needed:

• A well-buttered 2 pint (1.2 litre) pudding basin
• A large mixing bowl
• Greaseproof paper and foil (16 in by 12 in or 40 cm x 30 cm)
• String and scissors

This recipe is a gem from Delia Smith's Winter Collection and has also graced the pages of Sainsbury's Magazine (Jan 1994).

Method:

1. Butter Up! Start by buttering the basin like you’re preparing for a slippery slide. Measure 3 tablespoons of golden syrup and pour it in—this is the magic potion!

2. Mix It Up! In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and baking powder together. Add the softened butter, eggs, sugar, and black treacle (the dark knight of sweetness). Now, channel your inner rock star and beat the mixture for about 2 minutes with an electric whisk (or a fork if you're feeling strong—no judgment here!).

3. Spoon It! Carefully spoon the mixture into the basin and level the top like a pro. Take your sheet of foil, place it over the greaseproof paper, and make a pleat in the center like a fancy hat. Place the foil side up on top of the pudding.

4. Tie Up the Sweetness! Pull the foil down the sides, tie it up with string, and create a handle for easy lifting—this is not a wrestling match!

5. Steam Dream! Trim off any excess paper and steam the pudding for 2 hours, checking the water level halfway through. This is your time to relax—maybe grab a cup of tea!

6. The Grand Reveal! To serve, loosen the pudding all around with a palette knife, flip it onto a warmed plate, and pour an extra 3 tablespoons of syrup (warmed if you fancy) over the top. It’s showtime!

Now, take it to the table and watch everyone’s faces light up. You’ve just created the ultimate winter delight! Enjoy your Steamed Treacle Sponge Pudding—it’s the sweet little pick-me-up you deserve!