Description
A traditional British Christmas pudding that is steamed to perfection, packed with mixed dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of brandy, making it a classic festive dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
Fruits & Nuts
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit
- ½ cup raisins
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup brandy or orange juice
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well blended with the dried fruit and raisins.
- Add wet ingredients: Melt the butter slightly, then add it together with the eggs and brandy (or orange juice) into the dry mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a sticky batter.
- Prepare pudding basin: Grease a pudding basin or heatproof bowl with butter to prevent sticking. Spoon the mixture into the basin, pressing down lightly to remove air pockets.
- Steam the pudding: Cover the basin with a layer of parchment paper and foil, securing it tightly with string. Place it in a steamer or large pot with boiling water halfway up the sides of the basin, then steam gently for 2 to 3 hours. Check water levels occasionally and top up with boiling water as needed.
- Cool and serve: Once done, remove the pudding and allow it to cool slightly. Traditionally, it is served warm with custard or brandy butter. Leftovers can be reheated by steaming again before serving.
Notes
- This pudding is traditionally made several weeks in advance to allow the flavors to mature.
- To reheat, simply steam the pudding again for about 1 hour until warmed through.
- For an authentic presentation, flame with warmed brandy before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: British
