Traditional English Christmas Plum Pudding Recipe

This classic English Christmas plum pudding is a rich and festive dessert, perfect for holiday celebrations. Made with a blend of dried fruits, spices, and suet, it is traditionally steamed and served with a warm sauce.

The recipe requires some preparation and patience, but the result is a deliciously moist pudding that embodies the spirit of Christmas.

Overview of Traditional Plum Pudding

The traditional English Christmas plum pudding is a beloved dessert that embodies the festive spirit of the holiday season. This rich and dark pudding is made with a variety of dried fruits, spices, and suet, creating a moist and flavorful treat that is perfect for celebrations.

Steamed to perfection, this pudding is often prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. When served, it is typically accompanied by a warm brandy sauce, enhancing its indulgent nature and making it a centerpiece of any holiday feast.

Classic Christmas Plum Pudding Recipe

Ingredients That Make It Special

The key to a delightful plum pudding lies in its ingredients. A mix of raisins, currants, and sultanas forms the foundation, providing a natural sweetness and chewy texture. The addition of mixed peel and zests of lemon and orange introduces a citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the pudding.

Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and depth, while the suet or butter contributes to its moistness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and festive.

The Steaming Process

Steaming is an essential technique in making plum pudding, taking approximately six hours to achieve the desired texture. This slow cooking method allows the pudding to develop its flavors fully, resulting in a dense yet tender dessert.

To steam, the pudding basin is placed in a pot of boiling water, ensuring that the water level reaches halfway up the sides. It’s important to check the water periodically, adding more as needed to maintain the steaming process.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve, the plum pudding is reheated by steaming it again for about two hours. This ensures it is warm and ready to delight guests. Once turned out onto a festive plate, it can be garnished with holly leaves and berries for a traditional touch.

A small bowl of warm brandy sauce should accompany the pudding, allowing each slice to be drizzled with the rich sauce, enhancing the overall experience. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dessert that is sure to impress.

Creating a Festive Atmosphere

The setting in which the plum pudding is served can elevate the experience even further. Picture a cozy holiday environment adorned with twinkling lights and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. This backdrop not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the warmth and joy of the occasion.

Gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying this classic dessert, creates lasting memories that are cherished for years to come.

Storing and Preparing Ahead

One of the advantages of plum pudding is its ability to be made well in advance. After cooking, it can be stored in a cool, dark place, allowing the flavors to mature. This makes it an ideal choice for busy holiday schedules, as it can be prepared and forgotten until the big day.

When the time comes to serve, simply reheat and enjoy the fruits of your labor. This makes the traditional English Christmas plum pudding not only a delicious treat but also a practical addition to holiday festivities.

This plum pudding is filled with a mix of raisins, currants, and sultanas, along with a hint of brandy for depth of flavor. The steaming process takes about 6 hours, and it can be made in advance and reheated for serving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup currants
• 1 cup sultanas
• 1/2 cup chopped mixed peel
• 1/2 cup suet or butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup brandy or dark rum
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine the raisins, currants, sultanas, and mixed peel. Set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
3. Combine Mixtures: Add the suet or butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, milk, brandy, and zests to the dry ingredients. Stir in the fruit mixture until well combined.
4. Prepare the Pudding Basin: Grease a 2-liter pudding basin and spoon the mixture into it, pressing down gently. Cover with a layer of parchment paper and then foil, securing tightly.
5. Steam the Pudding: Place the basin in a large pot with boiling water, ensuring the water reaches halfway up the sides of the basin. Steam for about 6 hours, checking occasionally to add more water as needed.
6. Cool and Store: Once cooked, allow the pudding to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place until ready to serve.
7. Reheat and Serve: To serve, steam the pudding again for about 2 hours. Turn it out onto a serving plate and serve with warm brandy sauce or custard.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 60g