I'm sure golden syrup sponge pudding must go down as one of the best desserts to be found anywhere in the world, it is sweet (and yet not sickly) comforting and absolutely delicious served with custard in front of an open fire. The thing I don't think people realise is that it's actually easy to make. It is especially simple if you have a steamer, as you don't need to fiddle with pans of boiling water, just put it in the steamer and go from there. The quantities shown in this recipe serve 4 when served with custard.

Ingredients

• 65g Butter
• 65g Sugar
• 2 small Eggs, beaten
• Zest of 1/2 Lemon
• 115g Flour
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 30ml Golden syrup

Method

1. Combine the butter and sugar until it is smooth and creamy.
2. Add a little of the egg and a little of the flour and baking powder and fold in.
3. Continue to add the egg and flour until both are added completely.
4. Fold in the baking powder and lemon zest.
5. Place the golden syrup into the bottom of a 600ml pudding basin.
6. Place the sponge mixture on top of the syrup.
7. Cover the pudding basin with baking parchment and tie with string. Put a pleat in the paper so that there is room for expansion.
8. Place into a steamer and steam for approximately 1 1/2 hours, or until the sponge is well risen and firm to the touch.