Steamed Golden Syrup Spongecake

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Add 2 inches water to a large wide pot. Set a rack or a few metal cookie cutters in bottom of pot and bring water to a boil. Bring 3 cups additional water to a simmer in a small saucepan.

   Step 2

   Butter heatproof bowl, then pour 1/4 cup syrup into bottom. Beat together butter and sugar in another bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs 1 at a time, then add flour and milk alternately in batches, beating until combined. Pour batter over syrup. Cover bowl with a large round of wax paper, then top with foil, crimping tightly around edge. Tie string around rim to secure.

   Step 3

   Set covered bowl on rack (water should come three fourths of the way up side of bowl; add simmering water if necessary), cover pot, and steam cake over simmering water 1 1/2 hours. Remove bowl from pot and let stand 5 minutes. Discard foil and wax paper. Invert a plate over bowl, then invert cake onto plate. Serve immediately, drizzled with cream and additional syrup.

2. Step 4

   *Lyle's Golden syrup has a loyal following in Britain, where it's prized for its salty-sweet, slightly buttery flavor. You can find Lyle's in the baking aisle of many supermarkets, at specialty foods shops, and at ethnicgrocer.com.