Classic Poor Man's Pudding Recipe

Name: Classic Poor Man's Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Québécois
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup milk (room temperature); 1 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 3/4 cup water; 1/4 cup unsalted butter

55 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

A comforting Québécois dessert with a caramel-like sauce and soft cake.

Prep

15 min

Cook

35 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Poor Man's Pudding, or Pouding Chômeur, is a cherished Québécois dessert known for its simplicity and rich flavour. Originally created during the Great Depression, this dessert combines basic pantry ingredients to form a delightful treat. This version of Poor Man's Pudding maintains the authentic essence by combining a soft, cake-like topping with a luscious caramel sauce. It's perfect for those who love traditional desserts that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Ideal for cold Canadian evenings, this pudding is sure to become a family favourite, offering comfort with each spoonful of its rich, sweet sauce.

Instructions

Prepare the oven and dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish lightly with butter.

Pro tip: Using a deep dish helps prevent the syrup from overflowing.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.

Pro tip: Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed to avoid clumps.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.

Pro tip: Room temperature ingredients blend better and create a smoother batter.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix; this can lead to a dense cake.

Pour the batter

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Make the syrup

In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent the sugar from burning.

Add syrup to the batter

Carefully pour the hot syrup over the batter in the baking dish.

Pro tip: Pour slowly to avoid splattering.

Bake the pudding

Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.

Pro tip: The syrup will thicken as it bakes, forming a sauce.

Let it rest

Allow the pudding to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use a deep baking dish to prevent overflow as the pudding rises.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even baking.
Let the pudding rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Poor Man's Pudding?

Poor Man's Pudding, or Pouding Chômeur, is a traditional Québécois dessert made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter, topped with a caramel-like syrup.

How many calories are in Poor Man's Pudding?

A single serving of Poor Man's Pudding contains approximately 350 calories.

Can you make Poor Man's Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

How do you reheat Poor Man's Pudding?

Reheat the pudding gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) or in the microwave until warmed through.

What is the origin of Poor Man's Pudding?

Poor Man's Pudding originated in Quebec, Canada, during the Great Depression as a way to make a dessert using inexpensive ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Poor Man's Pudding warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement its sweetness. This dessert can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave before serving to bring back its fresh-baked warmth.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

Protein

Fat

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