Growing up, desserts were always a special occasion at my house. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the scent of cinnamon, sugar, and warm apples. Apple desserts, especially those with a soft, spongy texture, were the kind of treat that could bring the whole family together. One of the standouts was a simple yet magical apple sponge pudding. The base was light and airy, with just enough sweetness to balance out the tart apples. It was comfort in every bite. Over the years, I’ve tried many versions of this pudding, but none compare to Jamie Oliver’s recipe. It’s easy, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress.
Jamie Oliver’s Apple Sponge Pudding Recipe
Jamie Oliver is known for taking classic recipes and putting his own spin on them, making them approachable and exciting. His apple sponge pudding is the perfect example of this. It’s a nostalgic dessert that marries the sweet tartness of apples with a fluffy sponge topping. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe will definitely leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 large cooking apples (like Bramley or Granny Smith)
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 150g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2-3 tbsp of milk (optional, depending on the batter consistency)
- Icing sugar for dusting (optional)
The simplicity of this list makes it even more appealing. You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making this recipe a go-to for whenever the craving strikes. The apples are the star of the show, so using the right kind is key to balancing the sweetness with just enough tartness.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Sponge Pudding
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Preheat The Oven To 180°C (350°F).
Begin by greasing and flouring a baking dish or a medium-sized casserole dish. This will make the pudding easier to serve later on.
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Prepare The Apples.
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in the baking dish, arranging them evenly. You want the apples to form a solid base to soak up all the delicious batter.
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Make The Sponge Batter.
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This is the base of your sponge, so take your time here. Once it’s nice and airy, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
Slowly fold in the flour, cinnamon, and salt, making sure everything is evenly incorporated. Add the vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor. If the batter feels too thick, stir in a little milk to loosen it.
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Assemble The Pudding.
Pour the batter over the apples, making sure the apples are covered evenly. You don’t need to worry about perfection here; the batter will spread as it bakes.
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Bake And Serve.
Place the dish in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the sponge is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with icing sugar if you want an extra touch of elegance.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Understanding the science behind the ingredients helps explain why this pudding works so well.
- Butter & Sugar: The creaming of butter and sugar is a critical step in baking. It helps trap air, creating a light and fluffy texture in the finished sponge.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the batter, providing structure and stability to the sponge. They also contribute moisture.
- Self-raising flour: This type of flour contains baking powder, which is key to achieving the light, airy texture. It helps the sponge rise without the need for additional leavening agents.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples. It enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit and adds depth to the flavor.
- Apples: The type of apple you use plays a big role. Tart apples like Granny Smith break down slightly in the heat, softening into the most delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy sponge.
Expert Tips
- Choosing the right apples: The choice of apples is key to the pudding’s balance. Opt for tart apples that hold their shape when baked, like Bramley or Granny Smith. These apples will provide a slight tang to offset the sweetness of the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the flour, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture. You want the batter to stay light and airy.
- Let it rest before serving: If you can resist the temptation, let the pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to slice.
- Serve with cream or custard: While the pudding is delicious on its own, a dollop of whipped cream or a pour of warm custard takes it to the next level.
Recipe Variations
While the classic apple version is a winner, here are a few fun twists you can try:
- Pear & Ginger: Replace the apples with pears and add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the batter for a spicier, warmer variation.
- Caramel Apple: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the apples before topping with the sponge batter. The caramel will melt into the apples and create an extra layer of richness.
- Apple & Blackberries: Add a handful of fresh blackberries to the apple layer for a tart, juicy burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft sponge.
Final Words
Making Jamie Oliver’s apple sponge pudding is a simple yet rewarding experience. It’s one of those recipes that brings back memories and creates new ones. The way the apples soften into gooey pockets of sweetness under the light sponge is pure magic. And with minimal effort, you end up with a comforting, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Sponge Pudding?
To make it, peel and slice apples, then cook them with sugar and cinnamon. Make the sponge batter by mixing flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Pour the batter over the apples, bake it until golden, and serve warm.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead Of Apples For This Pudding?
Yes, you can try pears, peaches, or even mixed berries. Just make sure the fruit is ripe and slightly tart for the best balance with the sweet sponge.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Apple Sponge Pudding Take To Bake?
It typically takes around 45 minutes to bake at 180°C (350°F). Just check that the top is golden and the sponge is cooked through.