This apple sponge pudding dessert recipe is for Eves pudding, which is a traditional apple dessert recipe.  If looking for how to make a pudding, this apple sponge pudding recipe is ideal.

Ingredients – Serves 2

• 150 Bramley apples
• 50g granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• A touch of butter, for greasing
• 1 teaspoon cold water

For the sponge:

• 45g soft margarine
• 45g caster sugar
• 1 medium egg
• 45g self-raising flour
• A few drops vanilla extract, for flavour

Getting everything ready

1. Lightly grease two 9cm ramekin dishes with a touch of butter.  Sprinkle a little of the granulated sugar in the dishes to coat the inside.
2. Peel, core and chop the apples into large dice and place them in a saucepan.  Add the lemon juice, cold water and granulated sugar.  Cover with cling film as soon as possible, as the apple will quickly discolour when peeled.
3. Break the egg into a small jug and beat well with a fork.
4. Pre-heat the oven to 175°C (Gas Mark 4).

Method

1. Remove the cling film and place the saucepan on the hob over a medium heat.  Put on the lid and gently stew the apples for a few minutes until soft.  When soft, drain off the excess liquid and mash the apple to a smooth purée using a wooden spoon.
2. Divide the mashed apple between the prepared ramekins and allow to cool.
3. Meanwhile, make the sponge topping.  Place the soft margarine and caster sugar into a clean mixing bowl.  Using a handheld electric whisk, whisk until light and fluffy (don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl from time to time).
4. Next, gradually add the beaten egg until all the egg has been incorporated and add a few drops of vanilla extract for extra flavour.  Sift the flour into the bowl and fold in using a metal spoon.
5. Spoon the sponge mixture evenly over the apple.  Place the ramekins on a baking tray and put them in the pre-heated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the eves puddings are golden brown and the sponge is firm to touch.
6. Remove the apple sponge pudding from the oven and serve hot with custard.

Apple sponge pudding – hints and tips

It is worth putting your ramekins onto a baking tray as the apple may bubble over the sides.  The tray will catch any spillage and it is much easier to clean a tray than the bottom of an oven!