The Ultimate Traditional Christmas Pudding Recipe
When it comes to holiday desserts, nothing beats a classic Christmas pudding recipe that’s been passed down through generations.
This rich, moist, and fruity dessert is the crowning glory of any Christmas feast.
The tradition of making Christmas pudding dates back to medieval England, and I’m excited to share my tried-and-true version that always gets rave reviews from family and friends.
This pudding needs to be made at least a month before Christmas to allow the flavors to develop and mature, making it perfectly rich and delectable for the big day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Raisins | 1 cup |
| Sultanas | 1 cup |
| Currants | 1 cup |
| Mixed candied peel | 1/2 cup |
| Brandy | 1/2 cup (plus extra for feeding) |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Fresh breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter (melted) | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Mixed spice | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Grated apple | 1 medium |
| Grated carrot | 1 medium |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation (Day Before)
In a large bowl, combine all the dried fruits and candied peel.
Pour over the brandy, cover with plastic wrap, and let it soak overnight.
This step is crucial for developing those deep, rich flavors that make Christmas pudding so special.
Making the Pudding
The next day, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, and spices.
Add the brown sugar and stir well to break up any lumps.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and eggs until well combined.
Add the grated apple and carrot to the soaked fruit mixture.
Now, fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly.
The mixture should be fairly wet but not liquid – it should drop slowly from a spoon when tapped.
Preparing the Basin
Grease a 2-pint pudding basin with butter.
Cut a circle of parchment paper to fit the bottom.
I like to create a pleat in the center of the parchment paper to allow for expansion during cooking.
Steaming the Pudding
Spoon the mixture into the prepared basin, pressing down gently to remove any air pockets.
Cover the top with a pleated piece of parchment paper and foil, securing it tightly with string.
Make a string handle to help lift the pudding in and out of the pot.
Place the basin in a large pot with enough boiling water to come halfway up the sides.
Cover and steam for 6 hours, checking periodically to top up the water.
The Christmas pudding should be a deep, rich brown when done.
Storing and Feeding
Once cooled, remove the foil and paper, and replace with fresh ones.
Store in a cool, dark place.
Every week until Christmas, “feed” the pudding by spooning a tablespoon of brandy over the top.
This process helps preserve the pudding and enhances its flavor.
Serving Your Christmas Pudding
On Christmas Day, steam the pudding again for 2 hours to heat through.
Turn out onto a warm serving plate.
Warm some brandy in a small pan (about 3 tablespoons).
Pour over the pudding and quickly light with a match for the traditional flaming presentation.
Serve with brandy butter, custard, or cream.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Pudding
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Don’t skip the overnight soaking of fruits – it’s essential for flavor development.
When steaming, maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil.
If you hear a hissing sound while steaming, it means the water’s boiling too vigorously.
Always check the water level every hour during steaming.
Don’t open the lid during the first hour of steaming.
When feeding the pudding, make sure to pierce it several times with a skewer first.
Conclusion
This Christmas pudding recipe might seem time-consuming, but the end result is absolutely worth every minute.
The key to success lies in planning ahead and following each step carefully.
Remember that this is more than just a dessert – it’s a cherished Christmas tradition that brings families together.
Whether you’re making your first Christmas pudding or your fifteenth, this recipe will help you create a showstopping finale to your holiday feast.
Don’t forget to make a wish while stirring the pudding mixture – it’s all part of the magic of Christmas!
