Self-Saucing Chocolate Pudding

When I arrived in Australia over 20 years ago I was blown away with this country's love of a good chocolate pudding. Sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce and the rightfully venerated lemon delicious! That same self-sauciness blesses this pudding that's based on a recipe found in a vintage cookbook from Victoria.

Self-Saucing Chocolate Pudding
Self-Saucing Chocolate Pudding

When I arrived in Australia over 20 years ago I was blown away with this country's love of a good chocolate pudding. Sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce and the rightfully venerated lemon delicious! That same self-sauciness blesses this pudding that's based on a recipe found in a vintage cookbook from Victoria.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 6
  • Carbohydrate 0.044275 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 0.00021 g
  • Fiber 0 g
  • Protein 0.00021 g
  • Saturated Fat 3.5E-05 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (0g)
  • Sodium 0.0315 mg
  • Sugar 0.044275 g
  • Trans Fat 0.000126 g
  • Calories 1 calories

Step-by-step

  • Preheat the oven to 160°C.
  • Grease an 1.5L (6-cup) capacity ovenproof baking dish.
  • Sift the flour, 1/2 cup (110g) sugar and 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa into a bowl and stir to combine. Make a well in the centre.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, milk, vanilla extract and egg.
  • Gradually pour into the well, then fold to combine.
  • Spread mixture evenly into prepared dish.
  • Combine remaining 1/2 cup (110g) sugar and 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa and sprinkle over the top of the pudding.
  • Carefully pour 1 cup (250ml) boiling water over the top of the pudding.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is firm.
  • Stand for 10 minutes to cool slightly.
  • Dust the warm pudding with extra cocoa and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream.

My Unexpected Love Affair with Self-Saucing Chocolate Pudding

As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. I crave delicious, comforting desserts, but the thought of spending hours slaving over a stovetop is enough to make me reach for a store-bought treat instead. That was, until I discovered the magic of self-saucing chocolate pudding. It sounds fancy, I know, but trust me, it's surprisingly simple to make.

I stumbled upon this recipe while browsing a vintage cookbook—a quirky little find at a weekend antique market. The description promised a rich, decadent dessert that practically made itself, and honestly, it delivered. The best part? It's not just easy; it's incredibly versatile. I've adapted it over the years to suit different dietary needs and tastes. Sometimes, I use gluten-free flour for a lighter texture, other times, I add a pinch of espresso powder for an intense coffee flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. You can even play around with the type of cocoa; Dutch-processed cocoa lends a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor while natural cocoa provides a brighter, more tangy chocolate taste.

This self-saucing chocolate pudding has become a staple in our house. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a spontaneous dessert craving, or even a quick and easy treat to impress guests. The warm, gooey texture pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, transforming a simple pudding into a truly indulgent experience. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the process is straightforward, even for someone who's not a seasoned baker.

I often find myself reflecting on how much this simple dessert represents. It's a testament to how even the simplest ingredients can combine to create something extraordinary. It's a reminder to embrace those unexpected moments of culinary discovery, to trust in the process, and to appreciate the comforting joy of a truly delicious dessert made with love. For me, it’s more than just a pudding; it’s a little piece of happiness in a hectic life.

Tips and Variations:

  • For a richer flavor: Use dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder with a higher percentage of cacao.
  • Add some nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch.
  • Make it boozy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur (like Baileys or Kahlúa) for an adult twist.
  • Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom adds warmth and complexity.
  • Gluten-free option: Substitute self-raising gluten-free flour for the regular flour.
  • Dairy-free option: Use a dairy-free milk alternative (like almond or soy milk) and vegan butter.

This simple recipe has become much more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create something extraordinary. It's a comforting treat that reminds me of home, a symbol of unexpected joy, and a delicious dessert that's quick and easy enough for even the busiest weeknights.

So, if you're looking for a delightful and effortless dessert that's sure to impress, look no further than this self-saucing chocolate pudding. You won't be disappointed! I promise. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!