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Eve's Pudding with Apple Sponge Topping

A comforting dessert made with tart apples and a tender almond sponge topping, perfect for family dinners and cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dessert
Cuisine: British
Calories: 363

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling
  • 1 1/3 pounds Bramley or other tart cooking apples (about 600 g, about 4 medium)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice from juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (packed, 115 g)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
For the Sponge Topping
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, 115 g)
  • 1/2 cup superfine sugar (115 g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour plus 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder, 90 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/3 cup ground almonds (plus 1 tablespoon, 40 g)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (25 g)
Optional Toppings
  • Custard, cream, crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish: Heat the oven to 350°F and have a 9-inch round baking dish ready. Make sure it is at least 2 inches deep.
  2. Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss with lemon juice. Mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch, and spread in the baking dish.
Making the Sponge Batter
  1. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and superfine sugar until pale and creamy.
  2. Whisk eggs with vanilla, then add in parts to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
Assembly
  1. Mix flour, baking powder, and ground almonds, then gently fold into the batter until combined.
  2. Spread the batter over the prepared apple filling and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
Baking
  1. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the sponge is risen, deep golden, and a skewer comes out clean. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Enjoy warm or cold, ideally with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream. This dessert also reheats well.