Dessert

Malva Pudding Recipe

Name: Malva Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: South African
Ingredients: ¾ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup apricot jam; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup milk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup evaporated milk; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup butter; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

ByMariam Harutyunyan January 26, 2026January 26, 2026

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Introduction

Malva pudding is a classic South African dessert that’s wonderfully moist, sweet, and soaked in a rich cream sauce. This comforting treat is simple to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The image shows two white bowls each with a serving of a moist, dark brown cake that has a glossy top layer, with one bowl having a slice cut revealing a soft, orange-brown cake inside. Both pieces of cake have a dollop of white whipped cream on top. To the left of the bowls is a white baking dish containing the remaining cake with a golden serving spatula, and below is a small white dish with orange jam and a small gold spoon inside. A black and white textured cloth is placed near the bowls, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs

¼ cup apricot jam
1 teaspoon white vinegar

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
½ cup milk

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

½ cup heavy cream
½ cup evaporated milk
½ cup powdered sugar

½ cup butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Spray an 8×8-inch cake pan with baking spray and set aside.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the sugar and eggs until light and lemon-colored. Add the apricot jam and mix until well combined. Stir in the melted butter, vinegar, and milk, mixing for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix for 2–3 minutes until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30–45 minutes. After the first 15 minutes, cover the pudding with foil to prevent it from browning too much. The pudding should rise and develop an even golden-brown color.

Step 5: To make the cream sauce, combine the heavy cream, evaporated milk, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla in a medium pot. Warm gently over medium heat, whisking until the mixture is smooth and melted together.
Step 6: When the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and pour the warm cream sauce evenly over the hot pudding.
Step 7: Let the pudding stand for at least 10 minutes, allowing it to soak in the sauce. Serve warm for the best experience.

Tips & Variations

Use a quality apricot jam for the best flavor and texture.
Covering the pudding with foil prevents it from over-browning while ensuring it cooks through.
For a richer sauce, try adding a splash of bourbon or brandy to the cream sauce.

Serve with fresh cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Storage

Store leftover Malva pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving, and pour a little extra cream sauce over to keep it moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl containing two pieces of sticky toffee pudding. The bottom layer of each piece is a golden brown, moist and spongy cake, while the top layer is a darker, sticky caramelized toffee glaze. On top of one piece is a dollop of creamy white whipped cream with a smooth texture. A gold spoon is partially visible near the bowl, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a black and white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Malva pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding and cream sauce separately in advance. Store them in the fridge and combine just before serving. Reheat gently to restore warmth.

What does apricot jam do in the recipe?

Apricot jam adds sweetness, moisture, and a subtle fruity flavor that is characteristic of Malva pudding. It also helps achieve the pudding’s signature moist texture.