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Eve’s Pudding

Eve’s Pudding – Classic British Apple Sponge Recipe

Eve’s Pudding is a classic British apple sponge dessert made with soft,gently spiced apples and a light, golden sponge topping.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: British
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling
  • 700 g cooking apples peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 50 g caster sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Sponge
  • 100 g unsalted butter softened
  • 100 g caster sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100 g self-raising flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • A pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Grease a 1.5-litre ovenproof baking dish with butter.
  2. Place the sliced apples in a saucepan with the caster sugar, water, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
  3. Cook over medium heat for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften but still hold their shape.
  4. Transfer the apples to the prepared baking dish and spread them into an even layer.
  5. To make the sponge, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until pale and creamy.
  6. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a little flour if the mixture begins to curdle.
  7. Fold in the remaining flour and salt, then stir in the vanilla extract and milk to create a soft batter.
  8. Spoon the sponge mixture evenly over the warm apples and gently spread it to cover the surface.
  9. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the sponge is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  10. Allow the pudding to stand for 5 minutes before serving warm with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Chef’s Tips
  • Choose the right apples: Bramley or other tart cooking apples provide a lovely contrast to the sweet sponge.
  • Don't overcook the apples: They should soften but retain some texture because they will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Spread the batter gently: A smooth, even layer helps the sponge bake consistently.
  • Add extra spice: A pinch of nutmeg or mixed spice works beautifully with the apples.
  • Serve it warm: Eve’s Pudding is at its best fresh from the oven with plenty of hot custard.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble the apple layer and sponge separately, then combine and bake when ready for dessert.