Steamed Chocolate Puddings with Malted Chocolate Sauce Recipe 2026

If you're looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, try Benjamina Ebuehi's recipe for steamed chocolate puddings with malted chocolate sauce. This classic British pudding is perfect for chilly evenings and special occasions.

Why Steamed Puddings Are Making a Comeback

Steamed puddings have a long history in British cuisine, but they've fallen out of fashion in recent years. Benjamina Ebuehi, a former Great British Bake Off contestant, believes they deserve a revival. She says, "I adore them – you get the best texture and a pudding that feels like a big hug."

The steaming method produces a moist, tender crumb that's hard to achieve with other cooking techniques. Individual portions steam quickly and ensure everyone gets their own pudding.

Ingredients for Steamed Chocolate Puddings

This recipe makes seven individual puddings, perfect for a family dessert. Here's what you'll need:

• For the puddings: 110g unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing), 160g light brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 100g plain flour, 30g cocoa powder, 1½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp fine sea salt, 1 tbsp whole milk.
• For the malted chocolate sauce: 220ml double cream, 3 tbsp Ovaltine, 1 tbsp runny honey, 1 tbsp light brown sugar, 100g dark chocolate, a big pinch of sea salt.
• To serve: Cream or ice-cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pudding Basins

Grease seven small pudding basins (about 170-190ml capacity) with butter. Cut out small rounds of baking paper to fit the bases and place them in the bottom of each basin. This ensures the puddings release easily after steaming.

Making the Pudding Batter

In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Whisk in the eggs one at a time. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the milk.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared basins. The batter should come about two-thirds up the sides.

Steaming the Puddings

Place the basins in a steamer or a large pot with a trivet. Cover and steam for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more boiling water if needed.

Making the Malted Chocolate Sauce

While the puddings steam, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the double cream, Ovaltine, honey, and brown sugar until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate and sea salt. Stir until the chocolate melts and the sauce is smooth.

Serving Suggestions

Turn the puddings out onto plates and drown them in the hot malted chocolate sauce. Serve with a splash of cold cream or a scoop of ice-cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Puddings

These steamed chocolate puddings are a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert with a modern twist. The malted chocolate sauce adds a depth of flavor that complements the rich chocolate puddings perfectly.

If you enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, you might also like to try your hand at other steamed dishes. For a savory option, consider a mandu recipe for Korean steamed dumplings, or a bao buns recipe for fluffy steamed bread. These dishes showcase the versatility of steaming as a cooking method.

For another take on chocolate desserts, Benjamina Ebuehi's chocolate pumpkin spice choux buns are a delightful autumn treat. And if you're a fan of classic British bakes, her Belgian buns recipe is a must-try.

Steaming isn't just for desserts. You can also create savory dishes like siu mai, Chinese pork dumplings, or a simple steamed potatoes recipe as a Spanish side dish. For a silky, savory custard, try Chinese steamed eggs.