Print

Vegan Steamed Syrup Sponge Pudding Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 52 reviews

A classic British vegan steamed syrup sponge pudding featuring a light, fluffy texture infused with zesty lemon and sweet golden syrup. Steamed gently to perfection, this comforting dessert is perfect for serving with custard or vegan ice cream.

Ingredients

Syrup Base

  • 100 g (4 Tablespoons) golden syrup (plus extra for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cake Batter

  • 75 g (⅓ cup) vegan butter (melted)
  • 100 g (½ cup) caster or granulated sugar
  • 120 g (½ cup) unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy recommended)
  • Finely grated zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • 160 g (1 + ⅓ cups) self-raising flour

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wrapping: Cut a large square of baking parchment and another of tin foil, each with a pleat in the center to allow the pudding to rise during steaming. Skip this if using a pudding basin with a lid.
  2. Set Up Steaming Pan: Place an upturned saucer at the bottom of a large lidded saucepan and bring boiling water ready.
  3. Prepare the Pudding Basin: Grease a 1 to 1.2 litre pudding basin thoroughly. Pour golden syrup into the base, add the lemon juice, and stir to combine evenly.
  4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together melted vegan butter, sugar, non-dairy milk, additional lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Add Dry Ingredients: Carefully whisk in the baking powder followed by self-raising flour, mixing until no dry lumps remain, taking care not to overbeat the batter.
  6. Assemble Pudding: Pour the prepared batter gently over the golden syrup base inside the pudding basin.
  7. Seal the Basin: Cover the basin with the pleated baking parchment, then with the foil pressed tightly over the edges. Tie tightly with string around the foil just below the basin lip. Tie another string across the top to create a handle. If using a basin lid, simply secure it tightly.
  8. Place in Pan: Position the pudding basin on the saucer inside the pan. Pour boiling water to reach halfway up the basin’s side, making sure the water does not touch the foil or parchment to avoid sogginess.
  9. Steam the Pudding: Cover the pan with its lid and place on low heat. Gently simmer the pudding for 2 hours, topping up water as needed, and avoid removing the lid frequently.
  10. Check Doneness: The pudding is ready when it is springy to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Unmold: Carefully remove the foil and parchment. Run a knife around the edge of the pudding, then invert it onto a serving plate. It should release easily with a gentle shake.
  12. Serve: Drizzle extra golden syrup over the pudding and serve immediately, ideally with custard or vegan ice cream.

Notes

  • Using a pudding basin with a lid simplifies the steaming process by eliminating the need to cover with foil and parchment.
  • Keep the simmer gentle to prevent water from boiling vigorously and ruining the pudding texture.
  • Do not open the lid frequently during steaming as it lets steam escape and affects the cooking.
  • The lemon zest and juice give a fresh citrus flavor balancing the richness of the syrup and vegan butter.
  • Golden syrup quantity for serving is adjustable based on personal sweetness preferences.
  • Ensure all strings are tied tightly to prevent water ingress during steaming.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/vegan-steamed-syrup-sponge-pudding-recipe/