Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding

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Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding

There’s something so comforting about recipes that remind us of home and family, and this Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding is one of those special desserts that takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of warm molasses and sweet raisins filling the house is enough to make everyone gather around the table before it’s even ready to serve. I first made this pudding on a chilly Sunday afternoon when I wanted something cozy and nostalgic, and it instantly became a household favorite.

What I love most about this pudding is how it feels like a warm hug on a plate. The deep, rich flavor of molasses gives it a sweetness that’s not overpowering but perfectly balanced by the tender raisins throughout. And then, of course, there’s the sauce. Oh, the sauce! A buttery, golden topping that soaks into every bite, making it irresistibly moist and decadent. My kids ask for seconds every time, and even my husband, who doesn’t usually go for “old-fashioned” desserts, has claimed this as one of his favorites.

It’s a wonderful treat to make on weekends or for holiday gatherings when you want something a little special but still simple enough to make without fuss. You don’t need fancy equipment, just a bit of time for steaming and a willingness to let your home smell like pure heaven for a couple of hours. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s one of those recipes you’ll pass down for generations.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use golden syrup instead of molasses?
You can, but it will change the flavor. Molasses gives a deeper, richer taste, whereas golden syrup is lighter and sweeter.

Do I need a pudding mold to make this?
No, a heatproof bowl or even a metal mixing bowl will work just fine as long as it’s deep enough and can withstand steaming.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this pudding reheats beautifully. Just steam it again for 20–30 minutes or microwave individual slices with a little extra sauce.

Can I use other dried fruit instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Currants, chopped dates, or even cranberries can be used, but raisins are traditional and give a lovely texture.

Is this pudding very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced. The molasses gives it a rich, slightly bittersweet depth that pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce.

What You Need to Make Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding

Ingredients:

1 cup molasses

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 cup milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

½ tsp salt

1 cup raisins

For the Sauce:

½ cup butter

1 cup brown sugar

½ cup heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

Special Equipment:

A heatproof pudding mold or bowl

A large pot with a lid and a rack for steaming

Parchment paper and aluminum foil

How to Make Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding

Prepare the pudding mold by greasing it well and lining the bottom with parchment paper.

Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and milk.

Combine dry ingredients: Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the raisins.

Fill the mold and cover tightly with parchment paper and foil. Secure with string or a rubber band.

Set up the steamer: Place the mold on a rack inside a large pot with boiling water halfway up the side of the mold. Cover with the lid and steam for 2 hours, checking water levels occasionally.

Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter, add brown sugar and cream, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla.

Serve: Invert pudding onto a plate, slice, and drizzle with warm sauce before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Steamed Molasses Raisin Pudding

Use dark molasses for the richest flavor.

Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps the pudding tender.

If you don’t have a pudding mold, use any deep, heatproof bowl and cover it tightly.

Add a little orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy note.

Make extra sauce—it’s that good and people always want more!

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This pudding tastes like Christmas in a bowl! So warm and comforting—my kids loved it.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really tasty but took longer to steam than I expected. Worth it, though!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made this for Sunday dinner and my husband said it was the best dessert I’ve ever made.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great flavor. Next time, I’ll try adding some chopped dates for variety.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for family gatherings. Everyone wanted seconds and the sauce was heavenly.”

Printable Recipe

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