Name: Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: South African
Ingredients: 1 cup cake flour; 1 cup white sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 large egg; ½ cup full-cream milk; 2 tbsp apricot jam; 1 cup fresh cream; ½ cup butter

How To Make Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge the Master Chef Way

Step-by-step Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge

Step 1: Mix the flour, sugar, and baking soda in a bowl. Add the egg, milk, and jam and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Pour the batter into a greased oven-proof baking dish and bake at 180°C for 30 minutes until golden and risen.
Step 3: While the pudding bakes, melt the butter, cream, and additional sugar in a saucepan over low heat.
Step 4: Pour the hot sauce over the pudding as soon as it comes out of the oven. The pudding will absorb the sauce.
Step 5: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to soak in completely.

Serving suggestion for Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Traditional ways: Serve warm with custard, vanilla ice cream, or fresh cream.

Modern twists:

Fusion: Add a splash of brandy to the sauce
Low-carb: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version
Extra veg: Add grated lemon zest to the batter
Spice level: Use brown sugar for a richer caramel flavour

Master Tips for Success

Sauce consistency: The sauce should be thin enough to soak in but thick enough to cling.
Don't over-mix: Over-mixing makes the pudding tough. Mix just until combined.
Baking dish: Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even baking.
Make-ahead: Malva pudding keeps for 3 days in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

The Heritage of Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge

Malva pudding has Cape Dutch origins, influenced by the fusion of Malay and Dutch cooking traditions.

It became a national favourite after World War II when ingredients became more available.

Today it's one of South Africa's most beloved desserts, featured on menus worldwide.

👉 Browse all 100 Master Chef South African recipes for more inspiration and cooking ideas.

Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge – A South African Classic

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

How To Make Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge the Master Chef Way

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Master Tips for Success

The Heritage of Malva Pudding – Sticky Caramelised Sponge