Spiced Apple and Syrup Sponge Puddings

Spiced Apple and Syrup Sponge Puddings

makes: 4
calories: 525
fat: 21g
saturated fat: 12g
suitable for freezing: NO

Ingredients:

– 125g butter, at room temperature
– 100g golden caster sugar
– 1 medium egg
– 125g self-raising flour, sieved
– ½ level teaspoon ground mixed spice
– 1 eating apple, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons milk

for the topping:

– 4 tablespoons golden syrup
– 1 eating apple, peeled, quartered, cored and sliced

to serve:

– 4 tablespoons crème fraiche
– 4x150ml pudding basins, moulds or heatproof cups, buttered and base-lined

Preparation:

Set the oven to Gas Mark 6 or 200 °C.

To make the sponge: Put the butter and sugar into a mixing bowl and cream together with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy. Add the egg and continue whisking until smooth.

Fold in the sieved flour and mixed spice. Add the grated apples and milk and gently fold together until evenly mixed.

To make the topping: Take 1 tablespoon of golden syrup and put into the base of the prepared basins, moulds or cups. Repeat with the rest. Arrange a quarter of the sliced apples into the base of each. Spoon the sponge mixture on top.

Put the puddings on to a baking tray and bake for 35 minutes until risen, firm and a cocktail stick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cook for 5 more minutes, if needed.

Upturn the puddings on the non-stick paper and serve with a dollop of crème fraiche.

Our tip: Squeeze a little lemon juice over the sliced apples to prevent them from browning. Reheat individual puddings (in a non-metallic container) in a microwave for 1 minute, if necessary.