Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This chocolate steam pudding recipe delivers rich, decadent chocolate flavor with a delightfully fluffy texture. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this homemade classic is sure to become a family favorite. Forget complicated desserts; this recipe is a shining example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly quick to prepare. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master.
Ingredients:
- 175g plain flour
- 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 200g caster sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 250ml milk
- 100ml boiling water
- 50g unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan/ Gas Mark 3). Grease and flour two 15cm (6 inch) pudding basins or ramekins. This is crucial for easy removal of your delicious pudding.
Make the Batter:
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In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
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Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be quite thin—that's perfectly normal!
Steam the Pudding:
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pudding basins.
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Place the basins in a larger pan or roasting tin. Pour enough boiling water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the basins. This creates a steam bath for even cooking.
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Cover the pan tightly with foil or a lid. This is important to trap the steam and ensure the pudding cooks properly.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cooking time may vary depending on your oven.
Serve and Enjoy:
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Carefully remove the puddings from the water bath. Let them cool slightly before inverting them onto plates.
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Serve warm with your favorite topping, such as custard, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chocolate Steam Pudding:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough pudding.
- Grease and flour the basins well: This prevents sticking and makes it easier to turn out your puddings.
- Check for doneness: Use a skewer or toothpick to check if the pudding is cooked through. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before inverting: This prevents the pudding from breaking apart.
Variations:
- Add chocolate chips: For an extra chocolate hit, stir in some chocolate chips to the batter.
- Use different types of milk: Try using almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients. However, expect a dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and sugars, typical of a rich pudding.
This chocolate steam pudding recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. While it's undeniably a treat, the homemade aspect allows for control over ingredients, offering a potentially healthier alternative to store-bought desserts. It's a delicious dish perfect for satisfying those chocolate cravings! Enjoy!