Description
A classic British Christmas pudding recipe, rich in dried fruits and festive spices, traditionally steamed to perfection. This timeless dessert is perfect for holiday celebrations and can be prepared in advance for a deeper flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup currants
- 1 cup sultanas
- ½ cup mixed peel
- 1 cup suet (or vegetarian alternative)
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup plain flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup brandy (or orange juice for non-alcoholic)
- 1 apple, grated
- Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
- ¼ cup chopped almonds (optional)
- 1 tbsp black treacle
Instructions
-
Soak the Fruits:
- In a large bowl, mix raisins, currants, sultanas, and mixed peel with brandy (or orange juice). Cover and soak overnight.
-
Prepare the Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, and spices.
- Add the soaked fruit, suet, grated apple, zest, almonds, and treacle.
- Stir in beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
-
Fill the Pudding Basin:
- Grease a pudding basin and fill it with the mixture, leaving space at the top.
- Cover with parchment paper and foil, securing with string.
-
Steam the Pudding:
- Place the pudding basin in a large pot with water halfway up the sides.
- Cover and steam for 6–8 hours, checking water levels regularly.
-
Cool and Store:
- Let the pudding cool completely, then wrap and store in a cool, dry place until Christmas.
-
Reheat and Serve:
- Steam for 1-2 hours before serving. Serve with brandy sauce or custard.
Notes
- To create the traditional flaming effect, warm brandy, ignite carefully, and pour over the pudding.
- For a richer flavor, allow the pudding to mature for several weeks before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Christmas Pudding, Traditional Christmas Dessert, Holiday Baking