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A nostalgic South African dessert: Telephone pudding recipe

By September 26, 2025FinGlobal

A nostalgic South African dessert: Telephone pudding recipe

September 26, 2025

telephone-pudding

If you’re on the hunt for cheap pudding recipes that are both unique and delicious, look no further than the South African telefoon poeding. This hidden gem with a fascinating backstory and a flavour profile that will leave you craving more. If you’re looking for cheap pudding ideas to add to your repertoire, this recipe is a must-try.

The story behind Telephone pudding

The name “Telephone Pudding” has an intriguing origin. In the days of party-line telephones, this recipe was passed from one cook to another over the phone, earning it its quirky name. Despite its humble beginnings, this dessert has stood the test of time, becoming a beloved treat in South African households. It’s a dessert that combines simplicity with a touch of nostalgia, making it perfect for those who appreciate cheap easy puddings with a story to tell.

This dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with custard, cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, making it a favourite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (250 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
  • 1/2 cup (125 ml) sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (125 ml) milk
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (250 ml) boiling water
  • 1/2 cup (125 ml) brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) mixed spice

How to make South African Telephone pudding

Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved in making this delightful dessert:

  1. Prepare the batter: Cream butter and sugar, then mix in apricot jam and a lightly beaten egg. Combine dry ingredients:  flour, mixed spice and salt, and alternate mixing them with milk to create a smooth batter.
  2. Make the syrup: Boil water and sugar until the sugar dissolves, then add a splash of vanilla for flavour.
  3. Combine and bake: Pour the syrup into a deep oven dish, then gently pour the batter on top. Bake until the pudding is golden brown and cooked through.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dessert that’s both impressive and budget-friendly. It’s no wonder that telephone pudding recipes have become a go-to for those seeking cheap pudding ideas.

Why you should try this recipe

There are countless reasons to give this recipe a try. For one, it’s a fantastic way to explore South African cuisine and connect with a piece of culinary history. Additionally, it’s a great option for those who love cheap and easy puddings that don’t skimp on flavour.

Another reason to love this dessert is its adaptability. While the traditional recipe calls for apricot jam, you can experiment with other flavors like marmalade or berry jam to suit your taste. The addition of ginger adds a subtle warmth, but you can adjust the spices to make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, telefoon pudding is sure to be a hit.

Telephone pudding recipe: A dessert to share

In a world full of elaborate desserts, there’s something refreshing about a recipe that’s as simple and satisfying as this one. Telephone pudding recipes remind us that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones that bring us back to basics. So go ahead; indulge in a slice of nostalgia and discover why this dessert has captured the hearts of so many.

FinGlobal: cross-border financial specialists for expats

Just like a good Telephone Pudding brings comfort and nostalgia, FinGlobal’s services are designed to give South Africans abroad peace of mind, ensuring their financial transition is just as seamless and satisfying.

FinGlobal’s team of specialists is here to help South Africans with tax emigration, international money transfers, retirement annuity encashment and more; ensuring you comply with exchange control and tax regulations, while streamlining your financial emigration. If you’re considering moving abroad as exciting, trust FinGlobal to support your journey with expert financial advice tailored to your needs.

To find out more about our trusted cross-border financial solutions, leave your contact details below and we’ll be in touch to discuss your plans.

 

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