Ah, the holiday season! It always brings back sweet memories of baking with my grandma in her tiny kitchen, the warm scent of spices filling the air as we whipped up her famous Sticky Gingerbread Sponge Pudding. Every spoonful brings back the warmth and love that went into making it, and there’s just something enchanting about a dessert that’s as cozy as a wool blanket on a cold day. This pudding is perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings, and I promise it will leave everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!
What I love most about this pudding is its simple, comforting flavors. The combination of molasses and ginger creates a symphony of warmth and nostalgia that feels like a hug in dessert form. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard, and I assure you, both will feel like pure magic.
What’s in Sticky Gingerbread Sponge Pudding?
Molasses: This rich, thick syrup gives the pudding its deep flavor and lovely color. I prefer using unsulfured molasses for a milder taste, but feel free to go with blackstrap if you love that intense flavor!
Ground Ginger: This spice is the star of the show, providing that signature zing that makes gingerbread so delightful. Fresh ginger can work too if you have it on hand; just use less, as it’s more potent.
Cinnamon: Who doesn’t love the aroma of cinnamon? It pairs beautifully with ginger to create that warm, welcoming scent that fills your kitchen.
Baking Powder: The leavening agent that ensures your pudding rises beautifully and maintains a light sponge texture. You can opt for aluminum-free baking powder if you prefer.
Butter: You’ll need this for richness. I use unsalted butter so I can control the sweetness and saltiness of the pudding.
Sugar: A mix of brown and granulated sugar works wonders, creating a delicious balance of sweetness and moisture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is your best bet for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting a bit with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor!
Milk: Use whole milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative. It adds moisture and richness to the pudding.
Is Sticky Gingerbread Sponge Pudding Good for You?
This cozy treat certainly brings comfort, but let’s chat about the health aspects!
Molasses: It’s a sweetener, sure, but it also packed with antioxidants and minerals like iron and calcium. Just remember, moderation is key when it comes to sugar!
Ginger: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits. So, while it’s a dessert, at least you can feel a smidge better about indulging!
However, keep in mind that this dessert is still rich in sugar and calories, so it’s best enjoyed every now and then, especially during the festive season!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsulfured molasses
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk (or non-dairy alternative)
Servings: This recipe yields about 6 servings of pure cozy goodness!
How to Make Sticky Gingerbread Sponge Pudding?
1. **Prep Your Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a medium-sized oven-safe dish and prepare it by greasing it with butter.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground ginger, and cinnamon. Give it a good whisk until well mixed.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a nice texture!
4. **Add Molasses:** Stir in the molasses until combined. I love watching the dark syrup swirl into the mix!
5. **Combine Mixtures:** Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Stir until just combined. Don’t over mix; we want it fluffy!
6. **Pour and Bake:** Pour the batter into your greased dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pudding is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard. Trust me, it’s heaven on a plate!
Serving Suggestions & Tips for Perfection!
– To elevate your pudding, try topping it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped candied ginger for a festive touch!
– If you want to infuse some extra warmth, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in addition to the ginger and cinnamon.
– Leftover pudding? No problem! It can be stored in the fridge for a few days, and you can reheat it in the microwave for a quick sweet fix.
I can’t wait for you to try this Sticky Gingerbread Sponge Pudding! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm slice of nostalgia and holiday spirit all in one. When you bake it, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Share your experience or any little tweaks you made! Happy baking!
