Classic Steamed Treacle Pudding Recipe

The Classic Steamed Treacle Pudding is made by combining all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground ginger, which lends a warm spiciness to the cake. Cold cubed butter is rubbed into the flour mixture to create a crumbly texture. A wet mixture of egg, whole milk, golden syrup, vanilla extract, and freshly grated orange zest and juice is then stirred in.

Pouring golden syrup into the greased pudding basin before adding the batter creates a sticky, caramelized base when steamed. The pudding is covered with greaseproof paper and foil to retain moisture and then steamed in a pot with boiling water beneath using a steamer or a heatproof bowl on an upturned plate. The long steaming time of 1½ to 2 hours produces a soft, moist pudding with a slightly sticky texture and deep syrupy flavor enhanced by the ginger and orange.

This dessert is a traditional warm sweet treat with a moist crumb and syrupy base, ideal to serve on its own or accompanied by custard or cream.