James Martin's Sunday lunch pudding ideas
No Sunday lunch is complete without pudding. Discover 15 of James Martin’s best desserts – from classic comfort to showstopping treats worth saving room for
While it might be tempting to skip dessert after a hearty Sunday lunch, we’d argue it’s worth going the extra mile. A well-chosen pudding doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth – it rounds off the meal, bringing everything together in one final flourish.
And who better to turn to than James Martin? The celebrated chef – and a regular favourite of ours – knows exactly how to deliver crowd-pleasing puds with flair. We’ve picked 15 of his best-ever desserts, from timeless classics to indulgent showstoppers, guaranteed to earn their place at your Sunday table. Trust us – these are the sort of recipes that become family traditions.
Discover more pudding recipes perfect for any occasion with our most comforting pudding recipes, top school dinner puddings, best family pudding recipes and best summer pudding recipes.
1. Yorkshire parkin blackberry trifle
Parkin may be best known for Bonfire Night, but we think this spiced, sticky treat deserves a year-round revival. James Martin gives it a modern twist in this impressive trifle – a make-ahead dessert that looks incredible yet takes the pressure off preparation when you're hosting.
Discover more trifle recipes.
2. Classic summer pudding
Make the most of summer’s berry bounty with this vibrant brioche pudding, packed with strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and redcurrants. Using fewer than 10 ingredients, it’s an affordable way to showcase seasonal fruit – and if you really want to impress, why not forage for your berries?
Discover more summer desserts.
3. Banoffee cheesecake
What’s better than banoffee pie or cheesecake? Combining the two. This soft-set showstopper takes a little more effort, but it’s worth every step. With minimal cooking – just a quick sizzle for the bananas – it’s ideal for making ahead, leaving you free to enjoy the moment.
Check out these banoffee recipes if you like this infamous duo.
4. Apricot & ginger frangipane tart
This golden apricot tart gives Sunday lunch a five-star finish. Its buttery shortcrust base and squidgy almond filling make it a real treat — best enjoyed with a generous spoonful of crème fraîche and a cup of tea. It’s the sort of pudding worth saving room for.
Pile a glut of seasonal goodies onto one of our fruit tart recipes.
5. Rhubarb crumble trifle
Two classic puds come together in this summer standout, layering tender baked rhubarb with almond liqueur-spiked mascarpone and a golden oat and almond crumble. It's a clever twist on tradition that’s sure to impress.
6. School days citrus pudding
Take a trip down memory lane with this zingy citrus pud – a school dinner classic reimagined. Simple to make and full of nostalgic charm, it’s an effortlessly comforting way to round off your Sunday lunch.
Discover more of our best lemon dessert recipes.
7. Individual rhubarb ripple pavlovas
Pavlova is a brilliant way to end your Sunday lunch – light enough not to leave you feeling too full. Top these mini versions with vanilla-poached rhubarb and a generous spoonful of whipped cream for an eye-catching dessert.
Find further meringue inspiration with our top pavlova ideas.
8. Orange & pomegranate cheesecake
This no-cook orange and pomegranate cheesecake is ideal for Sunday lunch, especially when you're feeding a crowd—it easily serves up to 10. Top with pomegranate jewels and orange slices for bright, sweet bursts of flavour that make it feel extra special.
Don't fancy the kitchen? Check out more no-bake cheesecake recipes.
9. Passion fruit soufflés with passion fruit sauce
These five-ingredient mini soufflés deliver all the wow factor with minimal effort, thanks to a clever shortcut using ready-made custard. Perfect when you want something impressive without the faff.
10. Molten toffee puddings
Love chocolate fondants? Try this sticky toffee twist with a rich, melting centre. Serve warm with ice cream for a comforting finish to Sunday lunch. Any leftovers can be frozen in individual portions—ideal if guests are too full on the day so nothing goes to waste.
Give homage to one of the best desserts of all time, and check out more sticky toffee pudding recipes.
11. Salted caramel chocolate torte
Cooking for a table of chocolate lovers? This salted caramel chocolate torte is your go-to. The hint of salt lifts the rich caramel beautifully – and don’t be surprised if guests ask for the recipe before the plates are cleared.
12. James Martin’s double raspberry bakewell tart
A classic raspberry Bakewell makes a winning Sunday lunch dessert – simple enough for beginner bakers but with the option to level up. Follow our step-by-step guide to make your own shortcrust pastry from scratch and add an extra touch of homemade flair.
13. Rhubarb, pear & hazelnut crumbles
Crumble is the ultimate comfort pudding, whatever the season. For a summery twist, try our rhubarb, pear and hazelnut version. A scattering of nuts in the topping adds extra crunch and flavour – perfect served warm with a scoop of ice cream or a splash of custard.
Discover more crumble recipes perfect for any season.
14. Apple & blueberry danishes
These little fruit pastries make a lighter option after a hearty Sunday lunch. Guests can enjoy one or two on the spot – or take a few home if they’re too full. Perfectly portable and easy to share, they’re a simple way to end the meal on a sweet note.
15. Chocolate & almond puds with boozy hot chocolate sauce
These three-step chocolate and almond puddings look effortlessly glamorous but are ready in under 40 minutes. Make them ahead to save time, and while the recipe serves two, it’s easy to scale up for a crowd—perfect for a stress-free Sunday lunch dessert.
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