Celebrate Christmas the British Way: The Classic Christmas Pudding

When it comes to a traditional British Christmas, nothing takes centre stage quite like the Christmas Pudding. This rich, fruity dessert has graced festive tables for generations and remains a beloved part of the season’s celebrations.

A Little Tradition

Christmas Pudding isn’t just a dessert - it’s a ritual. Traditionally, families gather to stir the mixture, each person making a wish as they do. On Christmas Day, the pudding is steamed to perfection, doused in warm brandy, and set alight for a spectacular flourish before serving with lashings of custard or cream.

Ingredients

• 200g raisins
• 200g currants
• 100g sultanas
• 100g mixed peel
• 150g shredded suet (or butter)
• 150g soft brown sugar
• 150g fresh breadcrumbs
• 75g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 100ml brandy

Method

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits, peel, suet, sugar, breadcrumbs, flour, and spices.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the eggs, lemon zest, and brandy until everything is well mixed.
3. Steam the Pudding: Spoon the mixture into a greased pudding basin, cover with parchment and foil, and steam gently for around 6 hours.
4. Store and Mature: Allow the pudding to cool, then store in a cool, dry place for at least two weeks to let the flavours develop.
5. The Grand Finale: On Christmas Day, reheat by steaming for 2 hours, pour over warm brandy, and flambé for that classic festive spectacle. Serve with custard, cream, or brandy butter.

Let’s see your festive creations!

Once you’ve made your Christmas Pudding, share a photo of your masterpiece with us. We’d love to see how you celebrate Christmas the British way!

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