A Taste of Nostalgia: Making an Old-Fashioned Steamed Treacle Pudding

Few desserts evoke the comfort of British culinary tradition quite like a steamed treacle pudding. This classic treat, with its rich, Lyles golden syrup-soaked sponge, is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a warm, indulgent pick-me-up. 

Making this pudding may take a bit of time, but the result is well worth the effort. Let's dive into the details of crafting this nostalgic delight.

Ingredients:

For the pudding:

175g self-raising flour

100g breadcrumbs

125g suet (vegetarian or traditional)

100g golden syrup

125ml milk

1 large egg

Zest of 1 lemon

A pinch of salt

For the sauce:

150g golden syrup

Juice of 1 lemon

Equipment:

A large mixing bowl

A pudding basin (approximately 1.2 litres)

Baking parchment

Aluminium foil

String

A large saucepan with a lid

Method:

1. Preparing the Pudding Batter

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, breadcrumbs, suet, and a pinch of salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the golden syrup, milk, egg, and lemon zest until well blended.

Mix Together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth, thick batter.

2. Preparing the Pudding Basin

Grease the Basin: Lightly grease your pudding basin to ensure the pudding doesn't stick.

Add Golden Syrup: Pour the golden syrup for the sauce into the bottom of the basin, spreading it evenly.

3. Steaming the Pudding

Fill the Basin: Spoon the batter over the syrup in the basin, smoothing the top.

Cover the Basin: Place a piece of baking parchment over the basin, followed by a layer of aluminium foil. Make a pleat in the centre to allow for expansion. Secure with string, tying it tightly around the rim.

Prepare the Saucepan: Place a trivet or an inverted saucer in the bottom of a large saucepan. This will keep the basin from touching the direct heat. Fill the saucepan with boiling water to come halfway up the sides of the pudding basin.

Steam: Carefully lower the basin into the saucepan. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and steam for about 2 hours. Keep an eye on the water level, topping up with boiling water as needed to maintain the level.

4. Serving the Pudding

Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, carefully remove the basin from the saucepan. The pudding should be well-risen and firm to the touch. Insert a skewer into the centre; it should come out clean if the pudding is cooked.

Turn Out: Let the pudding sit for a minute, then run a knife around the edge to loosen it. Place a serving plate over the basin and invert it, allowing the pudding to slide out.

Serve: Serve hot with custard, cream, or even more golden syrup for an extra indulgent treat.

A Few Tips:

Make Ahead: This pudding can be made in advance and reheated. Simply cover with foil and steam for about 30 minutes to warm through.

Flavour Variations: Add a touch of spice such as ginger or cinnamon to the batter for a different twist.

Storage: Leftovers (if any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Steamed treacle pudding is a quintessential British dessert that never goes out of style. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cosy night in, this pudding brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table. Enjoy making and, most importantly, eating this timeless classic!