Christmas just isn’t complete without the rich and aromatic tradition of a classic Christmas pudding. Packed with dried fruits, warming spices, and a touch of brandy, this pudding is the ultimate centerpiece for your holiday table. Paired with a luscious brandy sauce, it’s a dessert that embodies the warmth and cheer of the festive season. Let’s dive into creating this timeless holiday treat!
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
| Ingredient | Imperial Measurement | Metric Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Raisins | 1 cup | 150 g |
| Currants | 1 cup | 150 g |
| Sultanas | 1 cup | 150 g |
| Candied peel (chopped) | 1/3 cup | 50 g |
| Dark brown sugar | 1/2 cup | 100 g |
| All-purpose flour | 3/4 cup | 90 g |
| Breadcrumbs | 3/4 cup | 75 g |
| Suet (or butter, grated) | 3/4 cup | 150 g |
| Eggs | 2 large | 2 large |
| Brandy | 1/4 cup | 60 ml |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Orange zest | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Mixed spice | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp | 2.5 g |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | 1 g |
| Milk | 1/4 cup | 60 ml |
For the Brandy Sauce:
| Ingredient | Imperial Measurement | Metric Measurement |
| Butter | 1/4 cup | 60 g |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | 100 g |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | 120 ml |
| Brandy | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
Recipe Instructions
For the Pudding:
- Prepare the Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the raisins, currants, sultanas, and candied peel. Add the brandy, mix well, and let sit overnight to soak.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, suet, sugar, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat the eggs, then add them along with the soaked fruits, zests, and milk to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the Basin: Grease a pudding basin (about 1.5-liter capacity) and spoon the mixture in, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Cover with a double layer of greased parchment paper and secure with kitchen string.
- Steam the Pudding: Place the basin in a large pot. Fill the pot with boiling water to halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover and steam for 6 hours, checking occasionally to top up the water.
- Cool and Store: Allow the pudding to cool. Wrap tightly and store in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months, reheating by steaming for 2 hours before serving.
For the Brandy Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the cream and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the brandy. Serve warm over the pudding.
Kitchen Accessories Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Pudding basin
- Parchment paper
- Kitchen string
- Large pot with a lid
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Nutritional Information & Servings
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (8 servings) |
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Origin of the Dish
The classic Christmas pudding has roots in medieval England, originally known as “plum pudding.” Traditionally made weeks before Christmas to allow the flavors to mature, it symbolizes the rich culinary history of the holiday season.
FAQs
- Can I make this pudding without suet?
Yes, grated butter or vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute. - How long can I store the pudding?
Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months in a cool, dark place. - Can I steam the pudding in advance?
Absolutely! Reheat by steaming for 2 hours before serving. - What can I use instead of brandy?
Rum or orange juice works well as non-alcoholic substitutes. - Can I freeze the pudding?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 6 months. Defrost and reheat before serving. - What pairs well with Christmas pudding?
Brandy butter, custard, or even a dollop of whipped cream are great accompaniments.
Conclusion
Paired with this festive soup, this vegan mains dish, and this classic Christmas pudding with brandy sauce is a timeless holiday meal and dessert that brings everyone together, you’ll have a Christmas meal to remember. The dessert has rich flavors and a warm aroma that is sure to create lasting memories. Ready to make this festive delight? Grab a sturdy pudding basin and get started!
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