The Classical South African Delight, Malva Pudding Recipe
The addition of apricot jam gives it a distinctive flavour, while the buttery, creamy sauce ensures every bite melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 15ml (a tbsp) butter softened
- 125ml (½ cup) sugar
- 1 large egg
- 250ml (1 cup) cake flour
- 5ml (1 tsp) baking powder
- 125ml (½ cup) milk
- 30ml (2 tbsps) apricot jam
- 5ml (1 tsp) baking soda dissoved in..
- 15ml (1 tbsp) viniger
For the Sauce:
- 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 125ml (½ cup) sugar
- 125ml (½ cup) water
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and mix well until incorporated.
- Sift the flour and baking powder, then fold them into the egg mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Stir in the apricot jam.
- Dissolve the baking soda in the vinegar and add it to the batter, mixing gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring continuously.
- Remove from heat once fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Once the pudding is baked, use a fork to prick holes all over the surface.
- Slowly pour the warm sauce over the hot pudding, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the pudding rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with custard, ice cream, or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Tips for Perfecting Your Malva Pudding
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps everything mix together more smoothly and creates a better texture.
- Mixing the Vinegar and Baking Soda: Add the vinegar and baking soda to the dough mix just before pouring it into the baking dish. This ensures the pudding retains its light and spongy texture.
- Incorporate the Apricot Jam: Warm the apricot jam slightly before mixing it into the batter. This makes it easier to blend and ensures an even distribution of sweetness and moisture.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense pudding instead of the desired spongy texture.
- Baking Time and Temperature: Bake at a moderate temperature (around 180°C or 350°F) to avoid overbrowning the top while ensuring the inside is cooked through. Start checking for doneness after 30-35 minutes.