Microwave Sponge Pudding is a classic British dessert that combines a light, fluffy sponge cake with a rich layer of golden syrup. I love how this recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of a traditional steamed pudding in a fraction of the time thanks to the microwave. It is a wonderful dessert for busy days when I want something warm, sweet, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
170 g unsalted butter
170 g plain flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
170 g caster sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
75 g golden syrup
1 teaspoon butter or oil for greasing
1 tablespoon flour for greasing
Directions
I grease a 1.7-litre microwave-safe pudding basin or bowl with butter or oil and lightly dust it with flour.
I pour the golden syrup into the bottom of the prepared bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the butter and caster sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.
I beat the eggs one at a time and mix them into the butter mixture along with the vanilla extract.
I stir the baking powder into the flour and gently fold the flour into the batter until everything is fully combined.
I carefully spoon the batter over the golden syrup in the pudding basin.
I cover the bowl loosely with cling film or a microwave-safe cover.
I microwave the pudding on full power for 6 minutes until the sponge has risen and is cooked through.
I allow the pudding to stand for 2 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a serving plate.
I serve it warm with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 9 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 235 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add a little lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrus flavor.
I like replacing the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty taste.
Occasionally I mix a handful of raisins or sultanas into the batter for extra texture.
I enjoy serving the pudding with a layer of fruit jam beneath the sponge instead of golden syrup.
I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to create a warm spiced version.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place individual portions in the microwave and warm them for 20–30 seconds until heated through. If I want to keep the sponge moist, I cover it loosely while reheating. I can also freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before warming.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding without golden syrup?
I can substitute golden syrup with light corn syrup, maple syrup, or a thin layer of fruit jam, although the traditional flavor will be slightly different.
How do I know when the sponge is fully cooked?
I check that the sponge has risen well and springs back lightly when touched. A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour?
I can use self-raising flour and omit the baking powder since the flour already contains a raising agent.
Why did my sponge turn out dense?
I find that overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients can affect the texture. I mix gently and use room-temperature ingredients whenever possible.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
I prefer making the batter just before cooking for the best rise, but I can prepare it up to a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
I find Microwave Sponge Pudding to be one of the easiest ways to enjoy a traditional British dessert without the long steaming time. The fluffy sponge and sweet golden syrup topping create a comforting combination that is perfect for family meals or cozy evenings. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and plenty of serving options, this recipe is a reliable favorite whenever I want a warm homemade dessert in minutes.
📖 Recipe:
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Microwave Sponge Pudding
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic British microwave sponge pudding with a light, fluffy sponge and a rich golden syrup topping. This quick and comforting dessert delivers traditional flavors in just minutes.
Ingredients
170 g unsalted butter
170 g plain flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
170 g caster sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
75 g golden syrup
1 teaspoon butter or oil for greasing
1 tablespoon flour for greasing
Instructions
- Grease a 1.7-litre microwave-safe pudding basin or bowl with butter or oil and lightly dust with flour.
- Pour the golden syrup into the bottom of the prepared bowl.
- Cream together the butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Stir the baking powder into the flour and gently fold the flour into the batter until fully combined.
- Spoon the batter carefully over the golden syrup.
- Cover the bowl loosely with cling film or a microwave-safe cover.
- Microwave on full power for 6 minutes until the sponge has risen and is cooked through.
- Allow the pudding to stand for 2 minutes.
- Carefully turn out onto a serving plate and serve warm with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Add lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty taste.
Mix in raisins or sultanas for extra texture.
Use fruit jam instead of golden syrup for a different topping.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- Prep Time: 9 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
