Name: Caramel Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1½ cups plain flour; 1½ tsp baking powder; ½ cup brown sugar; 80g butter; ¼ cup golden syrup; 1 tsp vanilla essence; 2 eggs; 125ml milk; 385g can sliced apples, in juice; 1½ cups soft brown sugar; 50g butter; 375ml water; Generous pinch of salt; Cream or vanilla ice cream

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

If you’re after a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, the Caramel Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. This charming pudding brings together the comforting flavors of sweet caramel sauce and tender spiced apples, all crowned with a light, fluffy sponge that soaks up the luscious juices beautifully. The contrast between the soft sponge and sticky caramel glaze creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing around the table or indulging all by yourself. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to puddings, a true classic with a deliciously nostalgic twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a layer of white flour at the bottom, topped with two bright orange egg yolks placed near the center. Surrounding the yolks is a light yellow liquid, likely butter or oil, mixing slightly with a dark brown liquid that creates a marbled effect along one side. The combination of dry and wet ingredients contrasts with the transparent texture of the bowl, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this pudding so special is the simplicity and heartwarming familiarity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the soft flour that forms the tender sponge to the rich butter and luscious golden syrup that create that signature caramel sweetness. These everyday pantry staples come together to deliver a magical dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

Plain flour: Provides a light and tender structure for the sponge cake base.
Baking powder: Acts as the natural leavening agent, giving the sponge a perfect rise.
Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to both the sponge and the sauce.
Butter: Brings richness and a silky texture to the batter and caramel topping.
Golden syrup: Imparts a beautiful golden hue and that classic caramel flavor.
Vanilla essence: Enhances the sweetness with warm, fragrant undertones.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the sponge’s airy texture.
Milk: Keeps the sponge moist and tender.
Tinned sliced apples in juice: Provide juicy, soft fruit pockets that soak up the caramel.
Soft brown sugar (extra): Used in the luscious caramel sauce for a rich finish.
Water: Balances the caramel sauce to create a pourable consistency.
Cream or vanilla ice cream: The ideal finishing touch to serve alongside this warm pudding.

How to Make Caramel Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 170°C with fan baking on, so it’s ready to create that perfect golden finish. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and brown sugar. This forms the dry base for your sponge, ensuring an even texture and balanced sweetness.

Step 2: Create the Sticky Butter and Golden Syrup Mixture

Melt your butter gently in a small jug, then stir in the golden syrup and vanilla essence until the mixture becomes thick and glossy. This step is where your sponge starts to get that wonderful caramel touch right from the start!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then pour in the butter and syrup mixture. Add the eggs and milk, and whisk everything together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter that’s ready to pour over the apples.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding Base

Scatter the tinned sliced apples evenly into the base of a greased baking dish. These juicy apple slices are the heart of the pudding, providing bursts of sweetness and moisture. Pour the batter on top and gently spread it out with a spoon or spatula, making sure it covers the apples completely.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Sauce

Combine the extra soft brown sugar, butter, water, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat until everything melts into a smooth, rich caramel sauce. This sauce will seep through the sponge during baking, creating that irresistible gooey layer.

Step 6: Pour the Caramel Sauce Over the Batter

Carefully pour the caramel sauce over the back of a large spoon onto the batter’s surface. This gentle technique helps the sauce sit on top without mixing into the sponge, so it can work its magic as the pudding cooks.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sponge is golden and a skewer inserted into the cake layer comes out clean. The caramel sauce will bubble deliciously around the edges, signaling that everything is perfectly cooked.

Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the pudding to sit for about 10 minutes once out of the oven. This cooling period sets the caramel sauce slightly, making it even more delightful when paired with cool cream or ice cream.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe

A white enameled cast iron pot holds a warm dessert with a thick, golden-brown crust on top, rough and lightly textured, with a section scooped out revealing soft, shiny, caramel-colored cooked fruit layers beneath, and two scoops of creamy white vanilla ice cream placed on the crust near the empty spot; a large silver spoon rests inside the pot, partly covered with crust and fruit. Nearby, a piece of the dessert with sauce is served on a white plate, topped with a scoop of white ice cream, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving this pudding with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. The creamy contrast perfectly complements the warm sponge and sticky caramel sauce, enhancing every bite with silky smoothness.

Side Dishes

If you want to create a dessert feast, consider fresh fruit such as sliced pears or a simple mixed berry salad on the side. These add a refreshing balance to the rich pudding and brighten the whole plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins or small ovenproof dishes for a charming personal dessert. Drizzle extra caramel sauce or sprinkle toasted nuts on top to elevate the presentation and add exciting texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pudding keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze portions in airtight containers. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor without any fuss.

Reheating

To bring leftover pudding back to its full glory, warm it in the oven at 160°C for about 15 minutes or microwave individual servings until just heated through. Serve immediately with your favorite cream or ice cream for a comforting treat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of tinned apples?

Absolutely! Fresh apples like Granny Smith or Bramley work wonderfully if peeled, cored, and thinly sliced. Just toss them in a little lemon juice and cinnamon before adding to the dish for extra flavor.

Is golden syrup essential in the recipe?

Golden syrup adds a lovely caramel depth and sticky texture that’s unique to this recipe. If you can’t find it, you could substitute with light corn syrup or maple syrup, but the flavor might be slightly different.

Can I make this pudding gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the plain flour for a gluten-free self-raising flour blend, you can easily make this pudding gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How long does the pudding keep once baked?

Once baked, the pudding tastes best within three days when stored in the refrigerator. After that, it may start to dry out and lose its tender texture.

Can I prepare the pudding in advance and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the pudding a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and that irresistible golden caramel finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the warmth and comfort that the Caramel Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe brings to the table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a treat to brighten your day, this pudding never fails to impress with its rich flavors and tender texture. So go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to love every sticky, sweet, and softly spongy spoonful!