Old Cape Brandy Pudding

Indulge in the rich, nostalgic flavors of Old Cape Brandy Pudding, a classic South African dessert that’s as comforting as it is decadent. This moist, sticky pudding is infused with tender dates, earthy walnuts, and warm spices, then elevated with a luscious brandy syrup that soaks into every bite. Perfectly balanced between sweet and spiced, this dessert bakes to golden perfection and comes alive with a wine-like glaze made from butter, sugar, brandy, and vanilla. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate cozy treat that’s ideal for holidays, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its timeless charm and heartwarming flavors, this traditional brandy pudding is a rich culinary heritage you’ll love sharing with guests.

Nutriscore Rating: 51/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 250 grams Pitted dates
• 250 milliliters Boiling water
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 100 grams Unsalted butter
• 200 grams Brown sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• 220 grams All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 100 grams Chopped walnuts
• 60 milliliters Brandy
• 150 grams Sugar
• 250 milliliters Water
• 25 grams Unsalted butter (for syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking dish or similar-sized pan.

Step 2

Combine the pitted dates and boiling water in a bowl, then stir in the baking soda. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to soften the dates.

Step 3

In a separate mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.

Step 5

Sift the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt together in another bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 6

Stir the softened date mixture and chopped walnuts into the batter. Mix gently until fully incorporated.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

While the pudding bakes, prepare the brandy syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Step 9

Bring the syrup to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the brandy and vanilla extract.

Step 10

Once the pudding is cooked, remove it from the oven and use a skewer to poke small holes all over the top.

Step 11

Pour the hot brandy syrup evenly over the pudding, allowing it to soak in completely.

Step 12

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1728 grams (1728.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4735

Total Fat 185.30g	238%
Saturated Fat 72.30g	362%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 648mg	216%
Sodium 3118mg	136%
Total Carbohydrate 719.60g	262%
Dietary Fiber 30.80g	110%
Total Sugars 514.70g
Protein 57.50g	115%

Vitamin D 94IU	472%
Calcium 549mg	42%
Iron 18mg	102%
Potassium 2848mg	61%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.9%

Protein: 4.8%

Carbs: 60.3%