If you have a soft spot for classic comforting desserts, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe. This old-fashioned pudding is wonderfully indulgent, boasting a moist, fluffy sponge with a sticky, caramel-like golden syrup sauce that bubbles up beautifully from the bottom. What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly the slow cooker brings out deep, rich flavors and that perfect pudding texture without any fuss—no need for an oven or constant babysitting. Whether you’re a seasoned dessert lover or a curious newbie, this recipe is like a warm hug on a plate and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the texture, sweetness, and color that make this pudding so irresistible. From the golden syrup’s caramel notes to the self-raising flour’s lift, it’s a lovely harmony of everyday pantry staples coming together to create magic.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (125g): Softened to help achieve a luscious, tender sponge without extra saltiness.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100g): Adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful light texture when creamed with butter.
- Large eggs, 2: Provide structure and richness to hold the sponge together as it cooks.
- Self-raising flour, 1 cup (125g): Gives the sponge a gentle rise and airy crumb.
- Milk, 1/4 cup (60ml): Moisturizes the batter for a soft, delicate finish.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor to complement the golden syrup.
- Golden syrup, 1/3 cup (100g) plus extra for drizzling: The star ingredient that brings that irresistible caramel flavor and sticky-sweet base.
How to Make Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pudding Basin
Begin by greasing a pudding basin or any heatproof bowl that fits comfortably inside your slow cooker. This step is essential to ensure the sponge releases easily later without sticking, preserving its perfect shape and texture.
Step 2: Add the Golden Syrup Base
Pour the golden syrup directly into the bottom of your prepared basin. This syrup will melt and caramelize during cooking, creating that signature sticky sauce you’ll love.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process aerates the batter, giving your sponge a wonderful lift and soft crumb.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat the eggs in one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a gentle aromatic sweetness that pairs perfectly with the syrup.
Step 5: Fold in the Flour and Milk
Add the self-raising flour in batches, alternating with the milk, folding gently to keep the batter airy and smooth. This careful mixing helps create the tender sponge texture that makes this recipe shine.
Step 6: Combine Batter and Syrup
Pour the prepared sponge batter over the golden syrup in your pudding basin. Do this gently to maintain the layering effect—the syrup will caramelize beneath the sponge as it cooks.
Step 7: Seal and Place in Slow Cooker
Cover the basin tightly with foil or a lid to prevent any water from seeping in during cooking. Place the basin into your slow cooker, making sure it fits snugly.
Step 8: Add Boiling Water
Pour boiling water into the slow cooker until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pudding basin. This water bath ensures gentle, even cooking and keeps the sponge moist and tender.
Step 9: Cook Until Set
Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The sponge should be springy to the touch and fully set, so resist the temptation to lift the lid too soon!
Step 10: Serve Warm and Drizzled
Carefully lift the pudding basin out of the slow cooker, remove the foil, and invert the sponge onto a serving plate so the gooey syrup sits on top. Drizzle with extra golden syrup for that irresistible finishing touch and serve warm.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is classic for a reason—it adds cooling contrast to the warm, sticky sponge. For a fresh twist, sprinkle toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top for added crunch and flavor.
Side Dishes
This pudding is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of fresh berries or lightly stewed fruits like apples or rhubarb. The tartness of berries or the slight tang of stewed fruit balances the syrup’s sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins, layering the golden syrup and sponge separately before cooking. Or try pairing it with a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce for an adult-friendly twist that takes the flavor to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover to retain moisture and prevent the sponge from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap individual servings tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the sponge gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain a soft, moist texture. Add an extra drizzle of golden syrup before serving to refresh the sticky charm.
FAQs
Can I use light corn syrup instead of golden syrup?
While light corn syrup can be a substitute, golden syrup has a unique buttery caramel flavor that truly defines this recipe. Using golden syrup will give you the best authentic taste and texture.
What size slow cooker do I need?
A standard 4 to 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe, accommodating a pudding basin comfortably and allowing room for the water bath.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the self-raising flour for a gluten-free self-raising blend to keep the texture light and delicious without gluten.
Why is a water bath necessary?
The water bath provides gentle, even heat around the pudding basin, preventing the sponge from cooking too quickly or drying out, resulting in a moist, tender texture.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
Yes, making the batter ahead is convenient. Cover and refrigerate it overnight, then pour it over the syrup and cook fresh the next day for a quick dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe is a charming reminder that some of the best desserts come from simple ingredients and patient cooking. It’s an absolute joy to serve and savor, perfect for cozy gatherings, family meals, or anytime you crave a nostalgic sweet treat. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it yourself—you’ll be rewarded with a warm, syrupy delight that feels like a little bit of love on a plate.
Print
Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge is a classic British dessert that delivers a moist, fluffy sponge cake infused with rich golden syrup. Cooked gently in a slow cooker, this pudding is an easy, hands-off dessert perfect for any occasion. The syrup caramelizes beautifully at the bottom, creating a luscious sauce to drizzle over each serving.
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 basin: Grease a pudding basin or a heatproof bowl that fits inside your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Add syrup: Pour 1/3 cup (100g) golden syrup into the base of the prepared basin to create a caramelized sauce at the bottom.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for aroma and flavor.
- Fold in dry and wet ingredients: Gently fold the self-raising flour into the mixture in intervals alternating with the milk to keep the batter smooth and avoid overmixing.
- Assemble sponge: Spoon the batter carefully over the golden syrup in the basin to keep the syrup at the bottom layer.
- Cover basin: Seal the basin tightly with foil or a fitted lid to trap moisture during cooking.
- Prepare slow cooker: Place the covered basin in the slow cooker and pour boiling water into the cooker until it reaches halfway up the sides of the basin, ensuring even steaming.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the high setting for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the sponge is set and springs back when pressed lightly.
- Serve: Carefully lift the basin out, remove the foil, and invert the sponge onto a serving plate so the syrup layer is on top. Drizzle with extra golden syrup for added sweetness and serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the pudding basin fits comfortably inside your slow cooker with enough room for water to surround it for steaming.
- Use boiling water in the slow cooker to maintain a consistent cooking temperature and ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute self-raising flour with plain flour plus 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder if self-raising flour is unavailable.
- For best results, serve the sponge warm with custard or cream.
- The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the size and model of your slow cooker.
