Apple Sponge Pudding

A delicious apple sponge pudding that I grew up with and in turn made for my children. My husband loves this dessert with a dollop of ice-cream. As I grew up eating this with custard that's how I like it.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  granny smith apples, peeled, cored and sliced
• 4  ounces sugar
• 1  teaspoon lemon rind, finely grated
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• 2  eggs
• 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 2  ounces caster sugar (US superfine sugar)
• 4  ounces self-raising flour
• 1  tablespoon brown sugar
• 1  pinch salt
• 2  ounces sultanas (U.S. Golden Raisins) (optional)

Directions

1. Put the apples, sugar, lemon rind, and ground cloves (if using) into a saucepan with just enough water to cover and simmer on low for 5 minutes or until the apples are just tender. Drain, and reserve the apple juice if desired.
2. For the topping beat the eggs and vanilla together and then beat in the caster sugar.
3. Fold in the flour and salt and combine.
4. Put the apple mixture into a greased pie dish and sprinkle brown sugar and sultanas if using. Add the topping mixture and sprinkle with a little brown sugar.
5. Preheat oven to 350 and bake for 30 to 35 mintures or until the topping is golden brown and firm.