Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels decadent but is so simple to make. The combination of chocolate, coconut, and cherry from the Cherry Ripe bars gives the puddings that nostalgic flavor I can’t resist. Since they’re cooked in the microwave, I don’t have to worry about preheating an oven or waiting around — they’re ready to enjoy in minutes. These puddings are perfect when I’m entertaining or just craving something warm, rich, and comforting on a weeknight.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup plain flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, sifted
3/4 cup brown sugar
60g butter, melted
1/2 cup milk
2 x 52g Cherry Ripe chocolate bars, chopped
2 tsp cornflour
3/4 cup boiling water
1 tbsp cherry syrup
Double cream, to serve
Cherry Ripe chocolate bars, to serve

Directions

I start by sifting the flour, baking powder, and 1/4 cup of the cocoa powder into a large bowl. Then I stir in 1/2 cup of the brown sugar, followed by the melted butter and milk. I mix everything until it’s smooth, then fold in the chopped Cherry Ripe pieces. I divide the mixture evenly among four microwave-safe cups, each holding about 1¼ cups capacity.

In a heatproof jug, I whisk together the cornflour, the remaining cocoa powder, remaining sugar, boiling water, and cherry syrup. I stir until the mixture is smooth, then gently pour the sauce evenly over the batter in each cup.

I place the cups on the microwave turntable and cook them on MEDIUM-HIGH (about 75%) for 5 minutes, or until the tops are just firm to the touch. I let them stand for 1 minute before serving. I like to top each pudding with a dollop of double cream and sprinkle over some extra chopped Cherry Ripe for that final indulgent touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes around 20 minutes in total — 15 minutes to prep and 5 minutes to cook.

Variations

I sometimes add a few dark chocolate chunks or a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor. If I don’t have Cherry Ripe bars, I use Bounty or another chocolate and coconut bar. For a fruitier twist, I use raspberry syrup instead of cherry syrup. I also love making mini versions in espresso cups for a fun dessert sampler.

Storage/Reheating

These puddings are best enjoyed fresh, straight from the microwave when the centers are still molten. However, if I have leftovers, I keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I microwave each pudding for about 30 seconds to warm through — just enough to bring back that gooey texture without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

I can prepare the batter ahead and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours, then cook when ready to serve.

What size cups should I use?

I use microwave-safe cups that hold about 1¼ cups each — the mixture rises as it cooks, so this size works perfectly.

How do I know when they’re done?

The tops should be firm to touch, but the centers will still be molten and soft.

Can I bake them in the oven instead?

Yes, I can bake them in ramekins at 180°C (350°F) for about 12–15 minutes.

What can I serve with these puddings?

I love them with double cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Can I use a different chocolate bar?

Yes, any chocolate and coconut combination works — Bounty or Cherry Coconut bars are great substitutes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and a vegan chocolate alternative.

Can I freeze them?

It’s not ideal to freeze them once cooked, but I can freeze the uncooked batter and sauce separately for up to a month, then thaw before microwaving.

Why is there sauce on the bottom?

That’s the molten part — the sauce sinks during cooking, creating that delicious, gooey layer underneath the sponge.

Conclusion

These Cherry Ripe Molten Microwave Puddings are one of my favorite quick desserts to make when I want something rich, chocolatey, and comforting. I love how the molten center pairs perfectly with the warm sponge and chunks of Cherry Ripe. It’s an effortless dessert that feels indulgent and impressive — perfect for when I want a treat without spending hours in the kitchen.