Jamie Oliver’s Sponge Pudding is a warm and indulgent dessert that is both simple to make and utterly satisfying. This soft, fluffy pudding can be paired with your favorite sauce or topping, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Easy to prepare: Minimal effort for a delightful dessert.
- Customizable: Works well with a variety of toppings like custard, syrup, or jam.
- Comforting and nostalgic: A classic British favorite.
- Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for any season: A versatile treat for all occasions.

What Is Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding?
Jamie Oliver’s Sponge Pudding is a traditional British dessert made with a light sponge cake batter, often steamed or baked, and served with a delicious sauce like custard, caramel, or fruit syrup.
Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding Ingredients
- 150g (2/3 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150g (3/4 cup) caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 150g (1 1/4 cups) self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Optional: 3 tablespoons jam, golden syrup, or treacle for the base
For Serving:
- Custard, cream, or ice cream
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Prepare the Steamer
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if baking. Alternatively, prepare a steamer for stovetop cooking. Grease a 1-liter (4-cup) pudding basin or ovenproof dish.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Fold in the Flour
- Sift the self-raising flour into the bowl and gently fold it into the mixture. Add the milk to create a smooth batter.
Step 5: Prepare the Pudding Basin
- If using jam, golden syrup, or treacle, spoon it into the base of the prepared basin or dish.
Step 6: Add the Batter
- Spoon the batter into the basin, smoothing the top. Cover tightly with a layer of parchment paper and aluminum foil.
Step 7: Bake or Steam
- To bake: Place the basin in a roasting tray filled halfway with boiling water. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the sponge is golden and springy.
- To steam: Place the basin in a steamer or large saucepan with water halfway up the sides. Steam for 1.5-2 hours, checking the water level occasionally.
Step 8: Serve
- Turn the pudding out onto a plate and serve warm with custard, cream, or ice cream.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Spatchcock Chicken
- Jamie Oliver Sausage Pizza
- Jamie Oliver Pasta Peperonata
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding
- Custard: A classic pairing for a creamy, smooth finish.
- Ice cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a refreshing contrast.
- Syrup or jam: Spoon extra golden syrup or jam over the top for added sweetness.
- Fresh fruit: Raspberries or sliced strawberries provide a fresh, tangy balance.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding
- Use soft butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Seal tightly: If steaming, make sure the basin is well-covered to prevent water from entering.
- Test for doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the pudding; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Make it chocolatey: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate sponge.
- Reheat gently: If reheating, steam or microwave in short intervals to keep the pudding moist.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding
- Lemon sponge pudding: Add lemon zest and juice for a tangy twist.
- Sticky toffee version: Use dates in the batter and serve with toffee sauce.
- Ginger sponge pudding: Mix ground ginger and treacle into the batter for a spicy kick.
- Berry twist: Layer fresh or frozen berries at the bottom of the basin before adding the batter.
- Vegan alternative: Substitute eggs with applesauce or mashed banana and use plant-based milk and butter.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding?
- Refrigerate properly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Wrap individual portions in cling film and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding?
- In the microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second intervals until warm.
- On the stovetop: Steam for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I make sponge pudding without a pudding basin?
Yes, you can use any ovenproof or heatproof bowl, such as a Pyrex bowl or a deep ceramic dish, as long as it’s well-greased and covered tightly during steaming or baking.
How can I make sponge pudding vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with vegan margarine.
Why is my sponge pudding dense and not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can make the sponge dense. Fold in the flour gently and avoid overworking the mixture to maintain a light texture.
Can I prepare sponge pudding in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, cook the pudding in advance, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it before serving.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Sponge Pudding is a classic dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. With its light, fluffy texture and endless serving options, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Try it today for a sweet, comforting treat!
Print
Jamie Oliver Sponge Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50 minutes (baking) or 1.5-2 hours (steaming)
- Total Time: 13 minute
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking or steaming
- Cuisine: Italian-British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Sponge Pudding is a traditional British dessert made with a light sponge cake batter, often steamed or baked, and served with a delicious sauce like custard, caramel, or fruit syrup.
Ingredients
-
- 150g (2/3 cup) unsalted butter, softened
-
- 150g (3/4 cup) caster sugar
-
- 3 large eggs
-
- 150g (1 1/4 cups) self-raising flour
-
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
- 2 tablespoons milk
-
- Optional: 3 tablespoons jam, golden syrup, or treacle for the base
For Serving:
-
- Custard, cream, or ice cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Prepare the Steamer
-
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if baking. Alternatively, prepare a steamer for stovetop cooking. Grease a 1-liter (4-cup) pudding basin or ovenproof dish.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
-
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
-
- Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Fold in the Flour
-
- Sift the self-raising flour into the bowl and gently fold it into the mixture. Add the milk to create a smooth batter.
Step 5: Prepare the Pudding Basin
-
- If using jam, golden syrup, or treacle, spoon it into the base of the prepared basin or dish.
Step 6: Add the Batter
-
- Spoon the batter into the basin, smoothing the top. Cover tightly with a layer of parchment paper and aluminum foil.
Step 7: Bake or Steam
-
- To bake: Place the basin in a roasting tray filled halfway with boiling water. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the sponge is golden and springy.
-
- To steam: Place the basin in a steamer or large saucepan with water halfway up the sides. Steam for 1.5-2 hours, checking the water level occasionally.
Step 8: Serve
-
- Turn the pudding out onto a plate and serve warm with custard, cream, or ice cream.