Plum Pudding, also known as Christmas pudding, is a classic British dessert that has stood the test of time. Made with a blend of dried fruits, spices, and rich, moist batter, it’s traditionally steamed or boiled for hours, resulting in a dense, flavorful pudding.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Rich, Decadent Flavor: The combination of dried fruits, warming spices, and a bit of brandy makes for a deeply flavorful dessert that’s perfect for winter celebrations.
• Perfect for Holidays: Plum pudding is a staple of Christmas dinners and other holiday feasts. Its luxurious texture and rich taste elevate any meal.
• Easy to Prepare Ahead: Unlike many desserts, plum pudding benefits from resting, making it perfect for preparing a day or two ahead of time. The flavors meld and improve over time.
• A Beautiful Tradition: The moment of serving the flambéed pudding is sure to delight your guests, adding a touch of drama and festivity to the meal.

Tips and Tricks

• Quality Dried Fruits: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of high-quality dried fruits, including raisins, currants, and sultanas. The dried plums (prunes) add a rich depth of flavor, but you can swap them out for dried figs or apricots if desired.
• Adjust Consistency: If your batter seems too dry or thick, add a splash more milk or orange juice to loosen it up. The batter should be thick but smooth.
• Resting Time: Plum pudding actually improves in flavor if made ahead of time. Letting it sit for 1-2 days or even a week before serving will allow the flavors to meld together and develop more complexity.
• Steaming Tip: Ensure that your water level in the steaming pot doesn’t drop too low. You can add hot water as necessary during the steaming process to keep the pudding from drying out.

Variations

• Vegan Plum Pudding: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Swap the butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free plum pudding, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.
• Nuts and Fruits: Feel free to customize the dried fruits and nuts to your liking. You can add raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped dried apricots for a unique twist. For nuts, try using pecans or hazelnuts.

How to Serve

Plum pudding is traditionally served hot with a variety of delicious accompaniments:

• Brandy Butter: A classic pairing, brandy butter adds a rich, boozy element that complements the deep flavors of the pudding. To make, simply combine softened butter with powdered sugar, a splash of brandy, and a pinch of salt.
• Vanilla Ice Cream or Custard: Creamy vanilla ice cream or homemade custard adds a rich contrast to the dense pudding. For a lighter option, try serving with whipped cream.
• Fresh Fruits: A handful of fresh berries, citrus segments, or a drizzle of fresh fruit syrup can add a refreshing touch to the pudding.

How to Store

Plum pudding can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment:

• In the Refrigerator: After the pudding has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will last for up to a week in the fridge.
• In the Freezer: To freeze, wrap the pudding in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, steam for 2-3 hours directly from frozen or let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make plum pudding without alcohol?

Yes, if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can replace the brandy or rum with fruit juice (such as apple or orange juice) or even a non-alcoholic wine. This will give your pudding a more subtle flavor but still keep it moist and delicious.

2. Can I steam plum pudding in a slow cooker?

Yes, a slow cooker works wonderfully for steaming plum pudding. Place the pudding basin into the slow cooker and add water up to halfway up the sides of the basin. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. How do I reheat a plum pudding?

To reheat, simply steam the pudding again for 1-2 hours. If you don’t have a steaming setup, you can microwave individual portions, though the texture may not be as moist.

4. Can I make a small batch of plum pudding?

Absolutely! This recipe can be scaled down. Use a smaller pudding basin or bowl and reduce the ingredients accordingly. Make sure to adjust the steaming time as well, as a smaller pudding will cook faster.

5. Why is my plum pudding dense?

If your plum pudding turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not allowing it to steam for long enough. Be gentle when folding the wet ingredients into the dry and ensure that the water level during steaming remains consistent.

Final Thoughts

Plum pudding is a truly comforting, festive dessert, ideal for creating lasting holiday memories. Whether you’re following tradition or adding your own twist, this classic recipe promises rich, deep flavors that will make every bite unforgettable. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!

Try other pudding recipes:

• Homemade Banana Pudding
• Cornbread Pudding
• Banana Pudding Cake