Michelle Darmody: Proof that puddings are for all year around

Baked sponge puddings are a hot, sticky treat — bread pudding with sour cherries and chocolate is delicious

Sponge puddings are delicious all year round

As the evenings get nippier a warm dessert becomes a real treat. Sponge puddings are hot and often sticky and will warm you up inside. There are many varieties of hot puddings — from the rich and dense traditional ones we eat at Christmas to lighter summer puddings. I enjoy steamed puddings but find that I rarely have time to make them. Besides, the kitchen can get very steamed up if you make a large one and have to simmer it for hours.

These are baked alternatives.