There is something deeply comforting about sliding a warm pudding out of the oven, especially when the kitchen smells like melted chocolate and soft fruit. This squidgy chocolate pear pudding is rich, moist, and unapologetically indulgent, with tender pears sinking gently into a fudgy chocolate base. Trust me, you’re going to love this, it feels like a hug in dessert form and it is perfect for slowing down and savoring the moment.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came from my love of old fashioned baked puddings, the kind that sit proudly in a ceramic dish and beg to be shared straight from the oven. I wanted something that felt nostalgic but still a little special, so chocolate was a must, and pears felt like the natural partner. The result is a pudding that lands somewhere between a cake and a brownie, soft, squidgy, and completely irresistible.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Chocolate puddings have long been a staple in British and European home baking, often served warm and spooned rather than sliced. Pears have been paired with chocolate for generations, especially in French and Italian desserts, because their gentle sweetness balances dark chocolate so beautifully. Bringing them together in a baked pudding is a simple idea that has stood the test of time.

Why You’ll Love Squidgy Chocolate Pear Pudding

Once you see how this pudding comes together, it is easy to understand why it earns a permanent place in your dessert rotation.

Versatile: It works just as well for a cozy family dessert as it does for a casual dinner with friends.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients and a few ripe pears are all you need.

Quick and Easy: The batter comes together in one bowl, which means less mess and more fun.

Customizable: You can play with the type of chocolate or add nuts if you like a bit of crunch.

Crowd-Pleasing: Chocolate and pears are a winning combination that rarely disappoints.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it earlier in the day and bake just before serving.

Great for Leftovers: If there is any left, it reheats beautifully the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A great pudding is all about small details, and these tips make all the difference. Use ripe but firm pears so they soften without disappearing into the batter. Melt the chocolate gently to keep it smooth and glossy. Finally, avoid overbaking, because the magic of this dessert is that soft, squidgy center.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather everything so the process feels relaxed and enjoyable.

Mixing bowl: Large enough to comfortably combine all ingredients.

Whisk: For a smooth, lump free batter.

Heatproof bowl: Useful for melting chocolate gently.

Ceramic baking dish: Helps the pudding bake evenly and stay moist.

Ingredients in Squidgy Chocolate Pear Pudding

This pudding shines because each ingredient plays its part, working together to create a rich and balanced dessert.

Dark chocolate: 150 g, melted, this gives deep chocolate flavor and richness.

Unsalted butter: 120 g, melted, adds moisture and a silky texture.

Caster sugar: 120 g, sweetens the pudding without overpowering the chocolate.

Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature, provide structure and richness.

All purpose flour: 100 g, creates the soft, tender crumb.

Cocoa powder: 30 g, intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, gives gentle lift while keeping the pudding dense.

Pears: 3 medium, peeled and sliced, bring sweetness and a soft fruity contrast.

Flaked almonds: 30 g, sprinkled on top for light crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need to adapt, and this recipe is forgiving.

Dark chocolate: Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter result.

Caster sugar: Fine granulated sugar works well too.

Pears: Apples can be substituted if pears are unavailable.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pears: Their soft texture and subtle sweetness balance the richness of chocolate beautifully.

Dark chocolate: The backbone of the pudding, it provides depth and that irresistible fudgy finish.

Instructions for Making Squidgy Chocolate Pear Pudding

Now let’s dive into the fun part, bringing everything together step by step.

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 180°C and lightly grease a ceramic baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, melted chocolate, and sugar until smooth.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Stir in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Assemble the Dish: Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder, then gently fold until just combined.
Cook to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared dish, arrange the pear slices on top, and sprinkle with flaked almonds.
Finishing Touches: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool slightly, then serve warm.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic of this pudding lies in contrast. The top sets into a tender crust while the inside stays moist and almost molten. The pears soften as they bake, releasing gentle sweetness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate. Every spoonful feels balanced and deeply satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few small tweaks can make this even better.

Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
Do not overmix once the flour is added.
Serve warm for the best squidgy texture.

What to Avoid

Even simple desserts have a few pitfalls.

Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the center.
Do not use underripe pears, as they will stay firm.
Avoid very high heat when melting chocolate.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Baked pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until just warm. Freezing is possible, but the texture is best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve Squidgy Chocolate Pear Pudding

Serve this pudding warm, straight from the dish, with a spoon. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, lightly whipped cream, or a simple dusting of cocoa powder.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers can be warmed and served as a decadent breakfast treat. You can also crumble the pudding and layer it with yogurt for an easy dessert parfait.

Additional Tips

For extra depth, use high quality cocoa powder. Let the pudding rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the pudding in the baking dish at the table and let everyone spoon their own portion. A light dusting of cocoa powder just before serving adds a lovely finishing touch.

Variations to Try

Add chopped nuts to the batter for crunch. Swap pears for apples or berries. Use a mix of dark and milk chocolate for a softer flavor profile.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter earlier and bake when ready.

Q2: Should this pudding be gooey inside?

Yes, the center should be soft and squidgy.

Q3: Can I use canned pears?

Fresh pears are best, but drained canned pears can work.

Q4: How do I know when it is done?

The edges should be set and the center slightly soft.

Q5: Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce it slightly, but the texture may change.

Q6: What size dish should I use?

A medium rectangular ceramic dish works perfectly.

Q7: Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, gently reheat until warm.

Q8: Is this more like a cake or a brownie?

It sits right in between, soft, rich, and fudgy.

Q9: Can I add spices?

A pinch of cinnamon works nicely with pears.

Q10: Is this good served cold?

It is best warm, but still delicious chilled.

Conclusion

This squidgy chocolate pear pudding is one of those desserts that feels special without being complicated. It is rich, comforting, and full of flavor, and let me tell you, it is worth every bite. Give it a try, share it with people you love, and enjoy every warm, chocolatey spoonful.