Classic British Plum Pudding: A Festive Holiday Dessert Tradition

Christmas Plum Pudding: A Yuletide Treasure

Embrace the festive spirit with this rich plum pudding that brings together aromatic spices, dried fruits, and a splash of brandy for a warming holiday dessert.

Ingredients for Traditional Plum Pudding

• 4 plums, pitted and chopped
• 100 g raisins
• 100 g currants
• 50 g chopped candied orange peel
• 50 g chopped almonds
• 100 g fresh breadcrumbs
• 75 g suet (vegetable or beef suet)
• 100 g demerara sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 4 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp brandy (plus extra for flaming)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Steam Your Pudding

1. Soak the Fruit Mixture

   In a large bowl, combine the plums, raisins, currants, candied peel, and almonds. Pour over 2 tbsp brandy, cover, and soak for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

   In another bowl, whisk together breadcrumbs, suet, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly distributed.

3. Combine and Bind

   Beat the eggs with milk. Stir into the dry mixture, then fold in the soaked fruits until you have a thick, moist batter.

4. Prepare the Pudding Basin

   Grease a 1.5-liter pudding basin. Spoon in the batter, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.

5. Cover and Steam

   Cover the basin with a double layer of greaseproof paper and foil, tying securely with kitchen string. Place in a steamer over gently simmering water. Steam for 5 hours, checking water level regularly.

6. Rest and Mature

   Let the pudding cool completely. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks—flavors deepen with time.

7. Reheat Before Serving

   On the big day, steam the pudding again for 1 hour. Tip onto a serving plate.

8. Flaming Finale (Optional)

   Warm a little extra brandy, pour over the pudding, ignite carefully, and let the blue flame dance across the top for a show-stopping presentation.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Classic: Serve with brandy butter or warm custard.
• Modern Twist: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds.
• Vegan Option: Replace suet with vegetable shortening and swap eggs for flax eggs.

Tips for the Perfect Plum Pudding

• Soaking overnight intensifies flavor and keeps the pudding moist.
• Ensure your steamer has enough water to prevent scorching.
• Cover tightly to avoid steam leaks—this ensures an even cook.

With its cozy spices, succulent fruits, and festive flair, this plum pudding will be the star of your holiday table.

Recipe courtesy of Allrecipes.