South African Malva Pudding is one of the most loved traditional desserts in Southern Africa. This warm, sponge-like pudding is soft, moist, and rich, then soaked in a buttery cream sauce straight from the oven. Served hot with custard, cream, or ice cream, Malva pudding is comfort food at its finest.
If you are looking for an authentic dessert that is simple yet indulgent, this South African Malva Pudding recipe is a must-try.
What Is South African Malva Pudding?
South African Malva Pudding is a baked dessert made with flour, sugar, eggs, apricot jam, and milk. What makes it special is the sweet sauce poured over the pudding while it is still hot, allowing it to soak in and become incredibly moist.
It is commonly served at family gatherings, Sunday lunches, holidays, and celebrations across South Africa.
Ingredients:
For the Pudding
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon apricot jam
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon butter (melted)
1 teaspoon white vinegar
½ cup milk
For the Sauce
½ cup cream
½ cup milk
½ cup sugar
½ cup butter
How to Make South African Malva Pudding
Follow these simple steps to create a soft and delicious Malva Pudding:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish. Beat the sugar and egg together until light and fluffy. Mix in the apricot jam.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently. Add the melted butter and vinegar, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the pudding bakes, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Heat gently until the butter melts and the sauce is hot.
Step 6: Pour the Sauce Over the Pudding
Remove the pudding from the oven and immediately pour the hot sauce over it. Allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Pudding
Always pour the sauce over the pudding while both are hot.
Do not overbake; Malva pudding should stay soft and moist.
Use good-quality apricot jam for the best flavor.
Serve warm for the most authentic experience.
South African Malva Pudding is best served warm with:
Vanilla custard
Whipped cream
Vanilla ice cream
It’s perfect as a dessert after a hearty meal or for special occasions.
Why South African Malva Pudding Is So Popular
This dessert is loved for its simplicity, rich flavor, and comforting texture. This Pudding brings people together and is often associated with home, warmth, and celebration. It’s easy to make yet feels luxurious.
