Maple Pudding Chômeur

Maple Pudding Chômeur, also known as “Poor Man’s Pudding,” is a classic Quebecois dessert that dates back to the Great Depression. This humble yet indulgent treat was created by resourceful factory workers and their families who sought to make a satisfying dessert with simple, inexpensive ingredients. The result is a comforting, cake-like pudding that boasts a rich, caramel-like maple sauce.

The magic of Maple Pudding Chômeur lies in its simplicity and the perfect harmony of flavors. As the cake bakes, it absorbs the sweet, buttery maple sauce, creating a delicious contrast between the light, fluffy cake and the gooey, decadent sauce. This dessert is not only a beloved staple in Quebec but also a cherished symbol of resilience and ingenuity.

Ideal for cozy family gatherings or a sweet conclusion to any meal, Maple Pudding Chômeur offers a taste of tradition and nostalgia with every bite. Its straightforward preparation and irresistible flavor make it a favorite among home bakers and dessert lovers alike.

Maple Pudding Chômeur Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) milk

For the Maple Sauce:

• 1 cup (240ml) maple syrup
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (35% fat)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish.
2. Make the cake batter:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Prepare the maple sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup and heavy cream.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
   • Once it starts to boil, remove from heat and carefully pour the hot maple syrup mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Do not stir.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top of the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Serve warm: The cake will absorb some of the maple sauce, and the remaining sauce will create a luscious layer at the bottom. Serve the pudding chômeur warm, spooning some of the sauce from the bottom over each serving.

Enjoy your delicious Maple Pudding Chômeur!

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