Few desserts capture the magic of Christmas like a Classic Christmas Pudding. Known as plum pudding in the UK, this rich, spiced dessert is a traditional centerpiece of holiday celebrations. On Pinterest, searches for “Christmas pudding” surge as December approaches, making it a timeless and highly shareable recipe.
Christmas pudding is made by steaming or boiling a dense batter filled with dried fruit, nuts, spices, and sometimes brandy. The long cooking process creates a deep, rich flavor and glossy finish. Traditionally, it’s served with warm brandy sauce or custard, and it’s often garnished with holly leaves for that unmistakable holiday presentation.
The beauty of this recipe is its history and nostalgia. Families often make the pudding weeks ahead, letting it mature for maximum flavor. For modern cooks, the recipe can be simplified but still delivers the same comforting taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
- ½ cup chopped nuts
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup brandy (or orange juice)
Instructions:
- Grease a pudding basin.
- Mix fruit, nuts, breadcrumbs, flour, and spices.
- Beat butter, sugar, and eggs together, add to dry mix.
- Stir in brandy.
- Pour into basin, cover tightly.
- Steam for 4 hours until set.
- Serve warm with brandy sauce.
Tips:
- Can be made weeks ahead and reheated.
- For alcohol-free, use orange juice instead of brandy.
- Garnish with holly for festive style.