Nothing quite beats the comforting warmth and rich sweetness of a classic British dessert, and the Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe delivers just that with effortless charm. This delightful pudding, cooked gently in a slow cooker, boasts a moist, tender sponge layered with luscious golden syrup that caramelizes to perfection. It’s the perfect cozy dessert to share with loved ones, filling your kitchen with irresistible aroma while you relax and let the slow cooker do all the work. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but relies on the perfect balance of ingredients to create its signature light texture and rich flavor. Each item contributes something special, from the buttery softness to the golden syrup’s deep caramel notes.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup / 125g): Softened for easy creaming and a rich, tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Sweetness that also helps create a fine, airy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Binding the batter and adding structure to the sponge.
- Self-raising flour (1 cup / 125g): The secret to a light and fluffy sponge without extra leavening agents.
- Milk (1/4 cup / 60ml): Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect sponge consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses the dessert with a subtle, sweet fragrance.
- Golden syrup (1/3 cup / 100g, plus extra for drizzling): The star ingredient—its rich, caramel-like flavor oozes through the sponge for that iconic taste.
How to Make Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Basin
Start by greasing your pudding basin or a heatproof bowl that fits snugly inside your slow cooker. This ensures easy removal and prevents your perfect sponge from sticking.
Step 2: Add the Golden Syrup Base
Pour the golden syrup into the bottom of the prepared basin. This layer will slowly caramelize as it cooks, giving your sponge its beautiful syrupy underbelly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for creating that soft sponge texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended to keep the batter smooth. Then add the vanilla extract to infuse a lovely aromatic touch throughout the sponge.
Step 5: Fold in Flour and Milk
Gently fold in the self-raising flour, alternating with a splash of milk to keep the batter silky and smooth. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until blended for a perfectly tender sponge.
Step 6: Assemble and Cook
Spoon the batter gently over the golden syrup in your basin, spreading it evenly without disturbing the syrup underneath. Cover the basin with foil or its lid, then place it carefully in your slow cooker.
Step 7: Add Boiling Water and Slow Cook
Pour boiling water into the slow cooker until it comes halfway up the side of the basin. Cover and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours. The slow, gentle heat will coax the sponge to rise beautifully and set into a springy, moist dessert.
Step 8: Unmold and Serve
Once cooked, carefully lift the basin out, remove the foil, and invert the sponge onto a serving plate. Drizzle with extra golden syrup for that irresistible glossy finish. Serve your warm creation immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe with a dollop of clotted cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a spoonful of softly whipped cream. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add an exciting contrast in texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This sponge pairs wonderfully with a simple pouring custard, which soaks into the sponge layers beautifully, or a warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist. A cup of strong black tea or coffee is the perfect companion to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in ramekins or mini pudding basins to impress guests or use colorful plates to make the syrup’s golden hues pop visually. For a modern spin, layer warm sponge pieces in clear glasses with custard or yogurt for a stunning trifle-style treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe is best kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sponge tends to absorb the syrup even more as it rests, making it even more flavorful the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the sponge once cooled completely by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen desserts should be consumed within one month for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. A little extra golden syrup or custard served alongside will revive its moistness and bring back that freshly cooked magic.
FAQs
Can I use light or dark golden syrup for this recipe?
Both light and dark golden syrup will work beautifully. Light golden syrup offers a milder sweetness, while dark syrup gives a deeper caramel flavor. Choose based on your preference!
Can I make this pudding without a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for the oven by baking the basin in a water bath at 325°F (160°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours until set and springy.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising blend. Ensure other ingredients like baking powder are also gluten-free.
What kind of pudding basin should I use?
Use a heatproof bowl or a traditional pudding basin that fits snugly in your slow cooker. Glass, ceramic, or metal basins all work well.
How do I know when the sponge is fully cooked?
The sponge should be springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with nostalgic flavor that brings people together. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a go-to dessert for cozy nights and special occasions alike. So go ahead, fire up your slow cooker, and treat yourself to this golden delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: British
Description
A decadent and comforting Golden Syrup Sponge pudding cooked gently in a slow cooker, resulting in a moist and fluffy texture with a luscious golden syrup topping. Perfect for a warm dessert that is easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Sponge:
- 1/2 cup (125g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (125g) self-raising flour
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Syrup:
- 1/3 cup (100g) golden syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Basin: Grease a pudding basin or heatproof bowl that fits inside your slow cooker to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after cooking.
- Add Golden Syrup: Pour the golden syrup into the bottom of the prepared basin, which will create a sticky, sweet base that becomes a delicious topping once inverted.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or wooden spoon until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to aerate the batter.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in for a smooth batter.
- Fold in Flour and Milk: Gradually fold in the self-raising flour, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, taking care not to overmix to keep the sponge light.
- Assemble in Basin: Spoon the prepared batter gently over the golden syrup at the base of the basin, spreading evenly without disturbing the syrup layer.
- Seal and Place in Slow Cooker: Cover the basin tightly with foil or a lid to trap the steam, then place it into the slow cooker.
- Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour boiling water into the slow cooker so that it comes halfway up the sides of the pudding basin, creating a gentle water bath for even cooking.
- Cook the Sponge: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours until the sponge is set and springs back when touched gently.
- Serve: Carefully lift the basin from the slow cooker, remove the foil, invert the sponge onto a serving plate so the golden syrup topping is on top, then drizzle with additional syrup and serve warm for best enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure the pudding basin fits comfortably inside your slow cooker with room for water around it.
- Covering the basin tightly prevents water from seeping into the sponge batter.
- Use a heatproof bowl or pudding basin with a lid if possible for ease of cooking.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker’s heat settings.
- Serve with custard or cream for an indulgent treat.
