The Ultimate Christmas Pudding Recipe

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Here’s a detailed and festive Christmas dessert recipe for you!

The Ultimate Christmas Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, is a traditional holiday dessert that dates back centuries. This rich, dense, and spiced pudding is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warming spices, making it the perfect ending to a festive meal. Often served with a generous drizzle of brandy sauce or custard, this dessert has been a staple of Christmas feasts for generations.

History of Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding has its origins in medieval England. Initially, it was a porridge-like dish called “frumenty,” made with beef, mutton, and dried fruits. Over time, it evolved into the steamed pudding we know today, made with suet, breadcrumbs, flour, sugar, and a medley of fruits and nuts. It became a Christmas tradition in the Victorian era, often prepared on “Stir-up Sunday,” the last Sunday before Advent, where families would gather to mix the pudding and make a wish.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

  • 200g raisins
  • 200g sultanas
  • 150g currants
  • 100g chopped dried apricots
  • 100g chopped prunes
  • 100ml brandy or rum
  • 150g dark brown sugar
  • 100g suet (or unsalted butter, grated)
  • 100g fresh breadcrumbs
  • 100g plain flour
  • 1 tsp mixed spice
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100ml milk

For the Brandy Sauce:

  • 50g butter
  • 50g sugar
  • 100ml double cream
  • 2 tbsp brandy

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Fruits

  1. Place all the dried fruits in a large bowl and pour over the brandy or rum.
  2. Cover and leave to soak overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

  1. In a separate bowl, mix the suet (or grated butter), sugar, breadcrumbs, flour, and spices.
  2. Add the soaked fruit mixture, along with the orange zest and juice.
  3. Beat the eggs and stir them into the mixture.
  4. Gradually add the milk until you have a thick batter.

Step 3: Steaming the Pudding

  1. Grease a 1.5-liter pudding basin and line the base with parchment paper.
  2. Spoon the mixture into the basin, pressing it down gently.
  3. Cover with a layer of parchment paper and foil, securing it with string.
  4. Place the basin in a large pan and fill the pan with boiling water until it reaches halfway up the basin.
  5. Cover the pan with a lid and steam for 5–6 hours, checking occasionally to top up with boiling water.

Step 4: Storing and Reheating

  1. Once cooked, allow the pudding to cool completely, then wrap it well and store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 weeks.
  2. On Christmas Day, reheat by steaming for 2 hours before serving.

Serving and Presentation

  1. To serve, carefully turn the pudding out onto a plate.
  2. Warm some brandy, pour it over the pudding, and set it alight for a dramatic flaming effect!
  3. Serve with warm brandy sauce or custard.

For the Brandy Sauce

  1. Melt butter and sugar in a saucepan over low heat.
  2. Stir in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in the brandy, and serve warm.

Lovers of Christmas Pudding

This dessert is cherished by holiday enthusiasts worldwide. It brings warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer to the Christmas table. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or prefer a modern twist, Christmas pudding is a must-have during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Christmas pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of tradition, togetherness, and holiday joy. Whether you make it weeks in advance or on Christmas Eve, its rich flavors and indulgent texture make it a delightful end to any festive meal. Try this recipe and make it a part of your Christmas tradition!

Would you like a variation of this recipe, like a chocolate Christmas pudding or a gluten-free version?

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