Jamie Oliver Microwave Chocolate Pudding Recipe [GUIDE]

Imagine the richest, most indulgent chocolate cake you can whip up in ten minutes. without an oven. That’s Jamie Oliver’s Microwave Chocolate Pudding. It’s a clever little dessert you cook in a mug or small bowl using just your microwave. The result? A warm, gooey, self-saucing chocolate pudding that tastes like you spent an hour baking it.

This recipe is part of Jamie’s mission to make good food simple. It’s also dangerously easy. You mix everything in one bowl (or mug), pop it in the microwave and boom-you’ve got pudding. Perfect for weeknights, late-night cravings or when guests are on their way and you forgot dessert.

Jamie Oliver Microwave Chocolate Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Let’s break down what you’ll need. Nothing fancy. You likely have it all in your kitchen already:

• 4 tablespoons self-raising flour – This is what gives the pudding its lift. If you only have plain flour, just add ½ tsp of baking powder.
• 4 tablespoons caster sugar. White sugar works if that’s what you’ve got.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. The unsweetened kind. Good quality cocoa makes a big difference.
• 1 medium egg – Room temperature if possible.
• 3 tablespoons milk – Whole milk is best but any milk will do.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil. Or sunflower oil. Neutral flavor is key.
• A few drops of vanilla extract. Optional but adds warmth.
• 2 tablespoons chocolate chips or chunks. Totally optional but absolutely encouraged.
• A splash of boiling water – This is what helps create that self-saucing texture.

That’s it. Pantry staples doing what they do best.

Equipment Needed

This recipe doesn’t require a lot. Here’s your toolkit:

• A large microwave-safe mug or bowl. Needs to hold at least 300ml. It will rise a lot.
• Spoon or fork – For mixing.
• Microwave – Ideally one with a turntable.
• Measuring spoons – Helps with accuracy but you can eyeball it in a pinch.
• Kettle or pot for boiling water – Just a splash needed but it’s a game-changer.

No stand mixers. No baking trays. No stress.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Microwave Chocolate Pudding

Alright, here’s where the magic happens. Let’s walk through it step-by-step:

1. Mix dry ingredients

   Grab your mug or bowl. Toss in the flour, sugar and cocoa powder. Give it a stir until combined. No lumps.

2. Add the wet stuff

   Crack in the egg. Pour in the milk, oil and vanilla. Stir well until you get a smooth, glossy batter. Make sure you scoop around the edges and bottom to mix everything evenly.

3. Add chocolate (if using)

   Drop in the chocolate chips or chunks. Stir them through or let them sit in the middle for a molten core.

4. Add hot water

   Pour in a tablespoon or two of boiling water. It seems odd but it makes a sort of sauce layer under the pudding. Don’t skip this step.

5. Microwave

   Microwave on high for about 1 minute 40 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power. The top should be just set and the sides puffed up. It might still look gooey in the middle. and that’s what you want.

6. Let it sit (just for a sec)

   Wait 30 seconds before digging in. The pudding firms up slightly and the sauce underneath gets more pudding-like.

7. Top it off (optional)

   A scoop of vanilla ice cream? A dollop of whipped cream? Even a drizzle of double cream. Not necessary-but highly recommended.

What I Learnt

Here’s what surprised me:

• Microwaves are weirdly powerful. My first try came out dry because I overcooked it. Less is more-undercooked is better than overdone with this one.
• That boiling water step is magic. It turns this from a basic mug cake into a saucy pudding. Like a self-saucing lava cake. Don’t skip it.
• Good cocoa matters. Seriously. Use a nice dark cocoa if you have it. It brings real depth.
• Resting it is key. Letting it sit a moment after cooking helps the texture settle. It goes from spongey to luscious.
• You can tweak it. Add orange zest, a pinch of chili powder or some espresso powder for grown-up variations.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Microwave Chocolate Pudding

So, you’ve made Jamie Oliver’s microwave chocolate pudding and loved it. But now you’re wondering. how can I make it even better? Or maybe you just want to put your own spin on it. Totally fair. This is where things get fun.

1. Swap the Sugar:

Jamie’s recipe usually uses caster sugar. Try brown sugar instead. It gives the pudding a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Want less sweetness? Cut back by a tablespoon or two. You won’t miss it much, especially if you’re adding sweet toppings.

2. Play with the Flour:

Plain flour is the go-to but self-raising adds more lift if you like your pudding extra fluffy. Want a gluten-free version? Swap in almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix. You might need to tweak the milk ratio slightly. just watch the texture.

3. Upgrade the Chocolate:

Cocoa powder is fine but using Dutch-processed cocoa brings a richer, smoother taste. You can even stir in a handful of chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for melty pockets inside. Bonus points if they’re 70% cocoa or more.

4. Add Some Flavor Boosters:

A dash of espresso powder takes the chocolate to the next level. it won’t taste like coffee, just more intense. Vanilla extract? Always a yes. You can also mix in orange zest, a pinch of cinnamon or even a tiny splash of rum or brandy for a grown-up twist.

5. Mix-ins Matter:

Crushed nuts (hazelnuts or pecans work great), mini marshmallows or a swirl of peanut butter in the middle-go wild. It’s your pudding. Just don’t overdo the mix-ins or it might not cook evenly in the microwave.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Okay, so maybe you didn’t eat the whole thing in one sitting (kudos for restraint). Let’s talk about how to keep it tasting great the next day.

1. Cool First, Store After

Let the pudding cool down to room temp before storing. If you cover it while it’s still warm, the steam turns to moisture and you end up with soggy pudding. Nobody wants that.

2. Fridge Rules

Pop it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll last 2 to 3 days, tops. After that, it starts drying out or getting that weird fridge taste. Not ideal.

3. Reheating Like a Pro

Microwave it in short 20-30 second bursts. If it feels dry, splash in a bit of milk or cream before reheating. It brings back some moisture and keeps the texture soft and gooey. Skip the microwave if you’re reheating for guests-use a steam bath in the oven for that ’just-made’ feel.

4. Can You Freeze It?

You can, technically but it’s not perfect. The texture gets a bit grainy after thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap portions in cling film and store in a freezer-safe container. Use it within a month and defrost overnight in the fridge.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Microwave Chocolate Pudding?

Chocolate pudding can absolutely stand on its own-but pairing it with the right sides turns it into a full-blown dessert experience.

1. Ice Cream Is a Must

Vanilla is classic. Salted caramel? Even better. The contrast between hot pudding and cold ice cream? Chef’s kiss. Try a scoop right on top and let it melt in.

2. Fresh Fruit for Balance

Berries are your friend here. Strawberries, raspberries or even sliced banana work great. They cut through the richness and add a pop of color.

3. Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche

Whipped cream is easy. Just dollop it on. But if you want something a little tangy to balance the sweetness, go for crème fraîche. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of honey for extra flair.

4. Crunchy Elements

Texture makes everything better. Crushed biscuits (like amaretti or digestives), chopped toasted nuts or even granola give the soft pudding a great contrast.

5. Boozy Add-ons

Serving adults? A drizzle of Baileys, Kahlua or orange liqueur over the top gives it that luxe feel. Just a touch goes a long way.

FAQs

How Long Do I Microwave Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Pudding For?

Microwave for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until it’s just set but still a bit gooey in the middle.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Microwave Chocolate Pudding In A Different Mug Size?

Yes, just adjust the microwave time depending on the size of your mug. Larger mugs might need an extra 10-20 seconds.

Can I Add Extra Ingredients Like Nuts Or Marshmallows?

Absolutely! Add them before microwaving for a bit of extra texture or flavor. Just make sure the mix isn’t too full to prevent overflowing.