Microwaved steamed sponge pudding

• 110g self-raising flour
• 50g sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 100ml water
• 60ml vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp golden syrup or maple syrup

1. Put the flour, sugar and baking powder in an 18cm Pyrex bowl and mix well. Stir in the water and oil to form a smooth batter.
2. Pour the syrup in the middle of the mixture (it should sink to the bottom).
3. Cover bowl with microwave-proof cling-film. Microwave on high for approx 4 mins.
4. Leave to stand for a few mins, then turn out onto a plate.

• Serve with dairy-free cream or custard

Try with jam or marmalade instead of golden syrup. You can also add a few chopped up dates or raisins to the batter.

It is also useful as a sponge base. Just microwave batter mix without adding syrup or jam, allow to cool and use sponge for trifles, etc.