Hairy Bikers’ Eves Pudding Recipe

Eve’s Pudding is a traditional British dessert that dates back to the 19th century, named, rather poetically, after the biblical Eve – a nod to its main ingredient: apples. The Hairy Bikers, beloved British chefs known for their hearty, rustic cooking, put their signature twist on this vintage classic, turning it into a soul-soothing family favourite.

The dessert begins with a base of tender, tart cooking apples, typically Bramleys, lightly sweetened and sometimes spiced with cinnamon. This fruit layer is then topped with a light, buttery sponge cake mixture that bakes to golden perfection, soaking up the apple’s juices while maintaining its fluffy texture on top.

The result?

A heartwarming pudding that bridges the crisp bite of fruit with the comfort of sponge, perfect with lashings of custard, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a simple drizzle of cream.

Hairy Bikers’ Eves Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of Eve’s Pudding lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need for the Hairy Bikers’ version:

🍎 For The Apple Base

• 3-4 large Bramley apples (or another tart cooking apple)
• 50g (about ¼ cup) caster sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but delightful)
• Juice of ½ lemon (to prevent browning and add brightness)
• A small knob of butter (for greasing and extra richness)

🍰 For The Sponge Topping

• 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (½ cup) caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 100g (¾ cup) self-raising flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A splash of milk (if needed, to loosen the batter)

🧁 Optional Extras

• A sprinkle of demerara sugar for a crunch on top
• A pinch of nutmeg or ginger in the apple mix for a spiced variation

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a high-tech kitchen to whip up this delight. Here’s what to have on hand:

• 1 large mixing bowl (for the batter)
• 1 smaller bowl (for prepping apples)
• Electric hand mixer or a wooden spoon and elbow grease
• Peeler and paring knife
• Ovenproof baking dish (a 1.5-litre dish works well)
• Measuring spoons and kitchen scale
• Spatula or spoon for layering
• Oven preheated to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Eve’s Pudding

1. Prep the Apples:

   • Peel, core and slice your apples into roughly 1cm thick wedges.
   • Toss with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
   • Arrange in a greased ovenproof dish so they form an even layer.

2. Make the Sponge Batter:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • Gently fold in the self-raising flour using a spatula or metal spoon. If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.

3. Assemble the Pudding:

   • Spoon the sponge mixture gently over the apples. Spread it evenly, trying not to disturb the fruit layer beneath.
   • Optionally, sprinkle demerara sugar over the top for a sweet, crunchy crust.

4. Bake:

   • Place in the middle of the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the sponge is golden and a skewer inserted into the topping comes out clean.

5. Serve:

   • Let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Best enjoyed warm with your topping of choice (custard is traditional and highly recommended!).

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use Bramley apples if you can: Their tartness and ability to soften beautifully under heat make them the perfect choice.
• Don’t overmix the sponge: Lightly folding in the flour ensures a fluffy, tender topping.
• Customize with flair: Add raisins or sultanas to the apple layer for extra depth, or swap cinnamon for ground ginger or mixed spice for seasonal variations.
• Make individual servings: Spoon into ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation – just reduce the bake time by 5-10 minutes.
• Serve with a contrast: The warmth and softness of the pudding pairs exquisitely with something cool and creamy.

Hairy Bikers’ Eve’s Pudding is more than just a dessert – it’s a warm, buttery trip down memory lane, evoking images of countryside kitchens, Sunday lunches, and the simple joy of home-baked comfort. With its balance of sweet and tart, soft and crisp, it’s the kind of dish that never fails to gather smiles around the table.

Whether you’re discovering Eve’s Pudding for the first time or recreating a beloved childhood memory, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your pudding repertoire. Now go on, pop the kettle on, and dig in.

🧁 Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Eve’s Pudding Recipe

Eve’s Pudding, a heartwarming British classic with tender stewed apples beneath a fluffy Victoria sponge topping, has long been a symbol of homely comfort. The Hairy Bikers’ version stays true to the spirit of the dish-simple, nostalgic, and generously portioned. But with a few delightful twists, you can personalize this pudding into something truly memorable.

1. Caramel Apple Indulgence

   Elevate the apple base by caramelizing the fruit first. Sauté your peeled, sliced apples in a knob of butter with a heaped tablespoon of brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon until they soften and the sugars become syrupy. This rich, toffee-like depth is a game-changer.

2. Boozy Elegance

   For a grown-up spin, soak the apples in Calvados, spiced rum, or even a splash of brandy. This not only adds a warming note but deepens the complexity of the filling-perfect for dinner parties or festive occasions.

3. Berry Beautiful

   Mix in tart raspberries or blackberries with the apples. The burst of color and sharp contrast to the sweet sponge topping adds both visual flair and palate-piquing acidity.

4. Nutty Crunch

   Add texture to the topping by folding in chopped walnuts or pecans. Or, for a subtle crunch, sprinkle demerara sugar on top before baking-it forms a delicate crust over the golden sponge.

5. Citrus Lift

   Grate in some lemon or orange zest into the sponge batter. This simple tweak lightens the richness and adds a fragrant zing that harmonizes beautifully with the fruit below.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Eve’s Pudding is delightful warm from the oven, but it’s equally lovely the next day-provided it’s stored correctly.

1. Cooling Matters

   Allow the pudding to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Covering it while still warm can cause condensation, leading to soggy sponge.

2. Refrigeration

   Transfer the pudding into an airtight container or cover the dish tightly with cling film. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

3. Reheating Tips

   For best results, reheat in a low oven (about 150°C/300°F) for 15-20 minutes. This keeps the sponge from becoming rubbery, unlike the microwave which can sometimes toughen the texture. If you do use a microwave, cover loosely and heat gently in short bursts.

4. Freezing for Later

   Yes, you can freeze it!

   Cut into portions, wrap each in cling film and then foil, or store in airtight freezer containers. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. The texture may be slightly softer post-freeze, but the flavor holds up wonderfully.

🍨 What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Eve’s Pudding?

This dessert practically begs for an indulgent pairing. Here are a few favorites to serve alongside:

1. Classic Custard

   Thick, creamy, and silky-smooth-there’s a reason custard is the go-to companion. Whether homemade with egg yolks and vanilla or poured from a trusted tin, it complements the soft sponge and syrupy apples exquisitely.

2. Clotted Cream or Ice Cream

   For contrast in temperature and texture, try a generous dollop of Cornish clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The coolness cuts through the warmth of the pudding beautifully.

3. Pouring Cream with a Twist

   Add a little intrigue by flavoring double cream with a hint of liqueur (try Amaretto, Cointreau, or Bailey’s) before pouring it over the pudding. Just enough to add a subtle aromatic note without overpowering the main event.

4. Spiced Compote

   A spoonful of winter-spiced plum or cranberry compote on the side offers brightness and seasonal flair. Ideal for the holidays, especially when you’re playing up the apple-cinnamon notes.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Eve’s Pudding is a dessert that hugs you from the inside out-a testament to the timeless charm of British baking. But like any good recipe, it’s a canvas.

With a few creative flourishes-from caramelized apples and boozy infusions to tangy berries or nut-studded toppings-you can transform a nostalgic classic into a personalized masterpiece. Store it right, reheat with care, and pair it thoughtfully, and this humble dish becomes an encore-worthy finale to any meal.

So grab your mixing bowl, warm up that oven, and let your inner pudding artist shine.

FAQs

What Is Eves Pudding, And How Is It Made In The Hairy Bikers’ Recipe?

Eves Pudding is a traditional British dessert that combines a sponge cake with stewed fruit, typically apples, and is topped with a light, fluffy sponge. The Hairy Bikers’ recipe calls for stewing apples with sugar and lemon juice before layering them in a baking dish.

The sponge batter, made from butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, is then poured over the stewed apples before baking. This creates a comforting, fruity dessert that pairs wonderfully with custard or cream.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Fruit In The Hairy Bikers’ Eves Pudding Recipe?

Yes, while the traditional recipe uses apples, you can easily adapt the Hairy Bikers’ Eves Pudding to include other fruits like pears, plums, or even a combination of fruits. The key is to ensure the fruit is stewed until soft and flavorful before layering it with the sponge batter. This allows you to customize the pudding to your taste while maintaining the essence of the dessert.

How Long Should I Bake The Eves Pudding, And At What Temperature?

The Hairy Bikers recommend baking the Eves Pudding in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40-45 minutes. The pudding is ready when the sponge is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using a fan-assisted oven, you might want to reduce the temperature to 160°C (320°F) to prevent overbaking.