Christmas Pudding, a cherished holiday tradition, combines a rich medley of spices, dried fruits, and a hint of spirits. Dive into the festive spirit with this homemade Christmas Pudding recipe that promises to be the highlight of your holiday table.

10 Curious Facts About Christmas Pudding.

1. Medieval Beginnings: Christmas Pudding’s roots trace back to medieval England, where a porridge called “frumenty” was served with beef and mutton. Over time, the dish evolved into a sweet, spiced pudding.
2. Puritan Ban: During the 17th century, Christmas celebrations were frowned upon in England, and the Puritans even banned the Christmas Pudding. However, it made a triumphant return with the restoration of Charles II to the throne.
3. Stir-Up Sunday Tradition: Christmas Pudding is traditionally made on “Stir-Up Sunday,” which falls on the last Sunday before Advent. Families gather to stir the mixture while making wishes, and sometimes, small tokens or coins are hidden within the pudding for good luck.
4. 13 Ingredients Symbolism: Traditional recipes include 13 ingredients, symbolising Jesus and His disciples. Each family member takes turns stirring the mixture from east to west, representing the journey of the Magi.
5. Steaming Tradition: Christmas Pudding is famously steamed, not baked. This method is said to represent the practice of medieval English cooks who steamed their savory puddings in a cloth.
6. Aged for Richness: Many aficionados believe that Christmas Pudding gets better with age. Some families make their puddings weeks or even months before Christmas, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
7. Flaming Tradition: A dramatic tradition involves serving the Christmas Pudding flambéed. Brandy or other spirits are heated and set alight, creating a spectacular blue flame as the pudding is brought to the table.
8. Alternative Names: In some regions, Christmas Pudding goes by other names, such as “Plum Pudding,” although it may not always contain plums. The term “plum” historically referred to any dried fruit.
9. Modern Twists: While the classic recipe remains beloved, modern variations of Christmas Pudding incorporate diverse ingredients, such as chocolate, nuts, and different spirits, offering a contemporary twist on this traditional holiday dessert.
10. Global Popularity: Beyond its English origins, Christmas Pudding has gained popularity worldwide and is enjoyed in many countries as a festive and flavorful conclusion to holiday meals. Its rich history and symbolic significance continue to make it a cherished part of Christmas traditions.

To craft the perfect Christmas Pudding, a selection of essential kitchen equipment is fundamental. The focal point is a PUDDING BASIN or mould, traditionally made of ceramic or heatproof material, providing the ideal shape for steaming the pudding to perfection. A sturdy MIXING BOWL is indispensable for combining the diverse array of ingredients, often including suet, flour, breadcrumbs, and an assortment of fruits and spices. The preparation process benefits from a reliable whisk or wooden spoon to achieve a smooth and consistent batter. Additionally, a STEAMER or a large pot equipped with a steaming rack ensures gentle and even cooking. PARCHMENT PAPER and ALUMINIUM FOIL come into play for securing the pudding during its lengthy steaming process. Lastly, a kitchen twine is useful for tying the pudding basin to facilitate easy removal post-steaming. With this array of equipment, crafting a Christmas Pudding becomes a delightful holiday tradition.

Christmas Pudding Magic

Christmas Pudding, a cherished holiday tradition, combines a rich medley of spices, dried fruits, and a hint of spirits

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 5 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine European

Servings 8

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pudding basin or mold
• Parchment paper
• Aluminum foil
• Steamer or large pot with steaming rack
• Kitchen twine

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup vegetarian suet
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits raisins, currants, sultanas
• 1 cup grated apple
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup molasses or dark treacle
• 1/2 cup stout or dark beer
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp mixed spice cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice

Instructions

 

• Mixing and Preparing:
• In a large mixing bowl, combine suet, sugar, flour, breadcrumbs, dried fruits, grated apple, and chopped almonds.
• In a separate bowl, mix molasses, stout, brandy, lemon zest, orange zest, and mixed spice.
• Combine wet and dry mixtures thoroughly.
• Pudding Basin Prep:
• Grease the pudding basin and line the bottom with parchment paper.
• Filling the Basin:
• Pour the pudding mixture into the basin, pressing it down firmly.
• Cover with a double layer of parchment paper and aluminum foil, secured with kitchen twine.
• Steaming:
• Place the basin in a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack.
• Steam for 4-6 hours, ensuring water is topped up as needed.
• Cooling and Storage:
• Allow the pudding to cool completely before removing the parchment and foil.
• Store in a cool, dark place until serving.

Notes

• Use fresh breadcrumbs for a better texture.
• Soak dried fruits in brandy or rum overnight for added richness.
• Serve with a warm brandy or rum sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
• On the table you can pour little bit rum on pudding and light the flames

Keyword cake, christmas pudding, pudding recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Lovely. Now let me know how you liked it and how much of a cheat it was. Tag @olga.amara on Instagram and hashtag it #flightforfood.

While I have you here, may I suggest few you try next:

• Hachee-Dutch Stew
• No-Knead Bread

Until next time. Keep following and comment.