APPLE AND GOLDEN SYRUP PUDDING (AUSTRALIA)

Steps:

• FOR THE PUDDING: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, then butter the inside bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish. Place casserole dish on a baking tray.
• Place apples in a medium, microwave-proof bowl, then sprinkle with sugar & water.
• Cover & microwave on high for 6-8 minutes or until tender, then cool in the bowl for 10 minutes.
• Drain the apples & arrange them in the prepared casserold dish.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour & brown sugar.
• In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter & golden syrup, then add this mixture to the flour ixture & gently stir to combine.
• Spoon mixture over apples & smooth the surface.
• FOR THE SYRUP: Evenly sprinkle a second 1/3 cup of brown sugar over the pudding mixture.
• In a heatproof container, combine the second 1/3 cup of golden syrup with the boiling water, then drizzle this mixture over the pudding.
• Bake for 50-55 minutes or until golden & cooked through ~ If necessary, cover the pudding lightly with aluminum foil if/when the top is a deep golden.
• FOR A GARNISH: When finished baking, set aside to cool for 5 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar (if using) & serve with ice cream, if desired.