Christmas pudding is a dense, richly spiced dessert that embodies the warmth of the holiday season. It is layered with dried fruits, infused with whiskey and stout, and crowned with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Traditionally steamed for hours, it develops deep, complex flavors that reflect centuries of Anglo-Saxon culinary heritage, making it a centerpiece dessert for your Christmas table.
What is Christmas Pudding?
Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, is a steamed dessert that dates back to the 14th century in England. Despite the name, the dessert contains no plums, instead, it features a mix of dried fruits, suet or butter, spices, and alcohol. It is usually prepared weeks before Christmas and was a symbol of abundance and prosperity. Some families still follow the old custom of stirring the pudding clockwise while making a wish, keeping the holiday magic alive!
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Pudding
- Steaming the pudding a day or two ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Always check the water level while steaming and top up with boiling water to prevent drying out.
- Using whiskey or brandy not only enhances flavor but also acts as a preservative.
- Grate fruits finely to ensure even distribution and a smoother texture throughout the pudding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Christmas Pudding Without Alcohol?
Yes! Substitute whiskey or stout with fruit juice or apple cider. While the flavor will be slightly different, the pudding will still be rich and festive.
How Long Can I Store Christmas Pudding?
When stored in a cool, dry place, steamed Christmas pudding can last for several weeks, allowing flavors to develop further. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
Do I Have to Steam the Pudding for 6 Hours?
Steaming for 6 hours ensures the pudding sets fully, and the flavors meld. If short on time, a minimum of 4 hours can work, but results may be slightly less dense.
Can I Reheat Christmas Pudding?
Absolutely! Reheat by steaming or microwaving gently. Avoid overheating to maintain its texture.
Ingredients
How to Make Christmas Pudding
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In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, cinnamon, mixed spices, ground ginger, and baking powder.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, cinnamon, mixed spices, ground ginger, and baking powder.
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In a mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until smooth.
In a mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until smooth.
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Add eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
Add eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
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Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using the electric mixer until fully combined.
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using the electric mixer until fully combined.
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Stir in Christmas fruit mix, grated apple, orange zest and juice, whiskey, and stout.
Stir in Christmas fruit mix, grated apple, orange zest and juice, whiskey, and stout.
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Butter a pudding bowl. Pour in the mixture, cover with parchment paper and foil, and secure tightly with a string.
Butter a pudding bowl. Pour in the mixture, cover with parchment paper and foil, and secure tightly with a string.
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Place the pudding bowl in a pot and pour boiling water to reach halfway up the bowl. Cover with a lid and steam for 6 hours, topping up water as needed. Allow to cool overnight.
Place the pudding bowl in a pot and pour boiling water to reach halfway up the bowl. Cover with a lid and steam for 6 hours, topping up water as needed. Allow to cool overnight.
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Transfer the pudding to a serving dish. Decorate with currants and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Transfer the pudding to a serving dish. Decorate with currants and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
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