Squidgy chocolate pear pudding Recipe

Serving Details

• Yield: Serves 6
• Serving Size: 1 slice per person

Recipe Description

This Squidgy Chocolate Pear Pudding is a decadent dessert that pairs the deep richness of chocolate with the light sweetness of pears. The chocolate cake is moist and gooey, while the pears add a fresh, juicy twist to every bite. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive celebration.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 120mg

Ingredients

• For the pudding:
  • 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
  • 150g unsalted butter
  • 150g caster sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100g self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
• For the sauce:
  • 200ml double cream
  • 50g dark brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 20cm round baking dish or a similar oven-safe dish.
2. In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Gradually fold in the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Sift the flour into the batter and fold gently until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped pears, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set but the center is still soft and slightly wobbly.
9. While the pudding is baking, prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the double cream, dark brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat gently over low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat.
10. Once the pudding is baked, allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
11. Serve the warm pudding with a drizzle of the chocolate sauce. Enjoy!

FAQs

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated when needed.

Can I use a different fruit instead of pears?

Yes, you can substitute pears with apples, peaches, or any other soft, juicy fruit. The texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Milk chocolate will make the pudding sweeter, but it will still work well. If you prefer a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, stick with dark chocolate.

Can I freeze this pudding?

Yes, you can freeze the pudding before baking. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, bake straight from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.

How should I serve this pudding?

This pudding is best served warm with a generous drizzle of the chocolate sauce. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.