Name: Pouding Chômeur with Date Syrup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487032H12M15S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: For the cake: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup milk For the sauce: 1 cup date syrup 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1/4 tsp vanilla extract Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pouding Chômeur with Date Syrup is a warm, indulgent treat that combines a moist sponge cake with a rich, caramel-like sauce. The date syrup adds a unique depth of flavor that complements the soft, golden cake. This dessert is easy to make yet feels special, with a lovely sweetness that’s not overly overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting dessert, this variation of the classic Pouding Chômeur is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the cake:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

For the sauce:

1 cup date syrup
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or cooking spray.
Make the cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer or by hand until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. The batter will be thick.
Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the date syrup, heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the pudding: Spoon the cake batter into the prepared baking dish or ramekins. Pour the hot date syrup sauce evenly over the top of the batter. Do not stir. The sauce will sink into the cake and create a beautiful, rich layer of syrup.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (though it may have a bit of syrup on it). The cake will rise to the top while the sauce will stay at the bottom.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Maple Syrup Version: For a more traditional take, swap the date syrup for maple syrup, which gives a milder, sweeter flavor.
Nuts and Spices: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for a little crunch and flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom can also complement the sweetness of the sauce.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and coconut cream in place of heavy cream to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
Spiced Pouding Chômeur: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of syrup for this dessert?

Yes, you can use other syrups such as maple syrup, caramel sauce, or agave syrup. Each syrup will give a slightly different flavor, but date syrup offers a rich, deep sweetness that complements the cake wonderfully.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake batter and the sauce separately ahead of time. Store the batter in the fridge and pour the sauce over before baking. Bake it fresh just before serving for the best results.

3. Can I make individual servings of this dessert?

Absolutely! You can divide the batter and sauce evenly into individual ramekins. Reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the ramekins.

4. Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, light cream can be used, though it may result in a slightly thinner sauce. Heavy cream provides a richer, more velvety texture.

5. Can I freeze this dessert?

While Pouding Chômeur is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked dessert for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

6. Can I substitute date syrup with honey?

You can substitute date syrup with honey, though honey will give a slightly different flavor. It will still work well as a sweetener in this dessert.

7. What’s the best way to serve this pudding?

Pouding Chômeur is delicious on its own, but it’s often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of the warm cake and cold ice cream is heavenly.

8. How do I make sure the cake is not too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter when incorporating the dry ingredients. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense. Also, be careful not to overbake it; the cake should be soft and slightly moist in the center.

9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser, and the flavor will have a more earthy note. For best results, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

10. Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes! You can fold in fresh or dried fruit, such as diced apples, pears, or raisins, for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop the fruit into small pieces.

Conclusion

Pouding Chômeur with Date Syrup is a wonderfully comforting dessert with a rich, decadent flavor profile that’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. The warm, gooey cake combined with the deep, caramel-like date syrup creates an irresistible treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this dessert will definitely leave a lasting impression