14 Dec 2025
Cook time 90 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup self-raising flour
Lemon steamed pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon with the light, fluffy texture of a steamed pudding. It's a perfect treat for any occasion and remarkably simple to prepare. Using basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe creates a delightful dessert that will surely impress your family and friends.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Steaming Setup:
- Find a large saucepan that can fit your pudding basin with a lid on top. Ensure there's enough space for steam to circulate around the basin.
- Place a trivet or an upturned heatproof saucer inside the saucepan to keep the pudding basin elevated above the water level.
2. Prepare the Pudding Basin:
- Grease the inside of your pudding basin or heatproof bowl with butter, and if desired, line the bottom with a round piece of baking paper for easy release later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer or hand whisk until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
4. Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to keep the mixture smooth and well-emulsified.
5. Incorporate the Flour:
- Gently fold in the self-raising flour using a wooden spoon or spatula, being careful not to over-mix. Over-mixing can result in a dense pudding.
6. Add Lemon Zest and Juice:
- Fold in the zest and juice of 1 lemon until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Prepare for Steaming:
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pudding basin. Level the top with a spatula.
- If your pudding basin has a lid, place it on. If not, cover tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil, ensuring it is attached securely around the edges of the basin to trap the steam inside.
8. Steam the Pudding:
- Place the covered pudding basin on the trivet or upturned saucer inside your large saucepan.
- Pour hot water into the saucepan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pudding basin.
- Cover the saucepan with its lid and bring the water to a gentle simmer.
9. Steaming Time:
- Steam the pudding for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the water level stays halfway up the side of the bowl, adding more hot water if necessary.
10. Check for Doneness:
- The pudding is done when a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If not fully cooked, continue steaming and check again after 10-15 minutes.
11. Serving the Pudding:
- Once done, carefully remove the basin from the saucepan and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges to loosen the pudding, then turn it out onto a serving plate.
12. Enjoy:
- Serve the Lemon Steamed Pudding warm, perhaps with a dollop of cream, custard, or a drizzle of lemon syrup for extra zing.
Once you’ve tried this lemon steamed pudding, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Its zesty lemon flavor and moist, tender texture make it an irresistible treat. Serve it warm with a drizzle of lemon sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent experience. Enjoy the smiles and compliments from your guests as they savor every bite.
Lemon steamed pudding FAQ:
What is the steaming time for lemon steamed pudding?
Steam the pudding for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the water level stays halfway up the sides of the pudding basin.
How can I check if the pudding is done?
The pudding is done when a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it’s not fully cooked, continue steaming and check again after 10-15 minutes.
What type of pan should I use for steaming?
Use a large saucepan that can fit your pudding basin with a lid. Ensure it has enough space for steam to circulate around the basin.
Can I make substitutions for ingredients like sugar or butter?
You can use alternatives such as coconut oil or margarine for butter, and brown sugar instead of white sugar, but this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover lemon steamed pudding?
Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam again or use a microwave.
Tips:
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugar well until light and fluffy, as this will add air to your pudding batter and ensure a lighter texture.
- For extra lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
- Cover your pudding basin tightly with foil to keep the steam from getting in and making the pudding soggy.
- Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes before turning it out of the basin to avoid breaking.
- Serve with a simple lemon sauce or custard to complement the pudding's flavor.