18+ Recipe For Old Fashioned Christmas Pudding Experience Culinary Bliss Now!
Published on: Apr 18, 2024
If you're looking to infuse your holiday celebrations with a touch of nostalgia, then an old fashioned Christmas pudding is the perfect dessert for you. This traditional British dessert, also known as plum pudding, has been a staple of Christmas feasts for centuries. Not only is it delicious, but it also holds a special place in many families' holiday traditions. In this article, we'll take you through a step-by-step recipe for making your own old fashioned Christmas pudding that will have your taste buds singing carols.
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Brandy, Candied Fruits, Butter, Bread Crumbs
The holiday season is all about indulging in delicious and comforting foods, and nothing says Christmas quite like a traditional Christmas pudding. This rich and decadent dessert has been a staple on festive tables for centuries, and for good reason. Made with a variety of dried fruits, spices, and brandy, Christmas pudding is the perfect way to end a holiday meal.
The old fashioned Christmas pudding is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. It's a time-honored tradition to make this pudding weeks before Christmas, allowing the flavors to develop and mature. This pudding is typically steamed for several hours, giving it a dense and moist texture that is perfect for soaking up the brandy sauce.
3of 18
Traditional Christmas Pudding (Figgy Pudding)
Main Ingredients: Dried Currants, Raisins, Golden Raisins, Candied Orange
Did you know that figgy pudding is another name for traditional Christmas pudding? This festive dessert gets its name from the use of dried figs in the recipe. Along with figs, raisins, currants, candied peel, and spices are also commonly used in traditional Christmas pudding. It's a hearty and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress your holiday guests.
4of 18
Eggless Christmas Pudding Cheesecake (How to Use Up...
Main Ingredients: Digestive Biscuits, Butter, Full Fat Cream Cheese
If you're looking for a unique twist on the traditional Christmas pudding, why not try making an eggless Christmas pudding cheesecake? This recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or for anyone looking for a lighter, no-bake option. It's a creamy and indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds – Christmas pudding and cheesecake.
5of 18
English Christmas Pudding
Main Ingredients: Flour, Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Baking Powder, Salt
In England, Christmas pudding is a beloved holiday tradition. Families often gather together to make the pudding, each member taking turns to stir the mixture and make a wish. The pudding is then steamed for several hours and served with a warm brandy sauce. It's a festive and heartwarming tradition that brings loved ones together during the holiday season.
6of 18
British Christmas Pudding
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Golden Raisins, Self Rising Flour
Similar to the traditional Christmas pudding, the British version also includes a variety of dried fruits, spices, and brandy. However, the British Christmas pudding often includes suet, which gives the pudding a richer and more dense texture. It's a staple dessert on British Christmas tables and is often served with a dollop of brandy butter.
7of 18
Old Fashioned Gingerbread Cookies
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Brown Sugar, Dark Molasses, Large Egg
While Christmas pudding may steal the show, let's not forget about the classic old fashioned gingerbread cookies. These spiced cookies are a staple during the holiday season and are often decorated with royal icing and festive sprinkles. They're perfect for baking with family and friends, and the aroma of gingerbread wafting through the house is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
8of 18
Yoder’s Old-Fashioned Christmas Turtle Candies
Main Ingredients: Cinnamon Sticks, Whole Allspice, Whole Nutmeg, Bay
If you're looking for a sweet treat to add to your holiday dessert spread, look no further than Yoder's old fashioned Christmas turtle candies. These decadent candies are made with caramel, pecans, and chocolate, and are a crowd-pleasing indulgence. They also make for a perfect homemade gift for friends and family.
9of 18
Christmas Old Fashioned
Main Ingredients: Pure Maple Syrup, Cinnamon Stick, Cardamom Pods
Speaking of indulgences, why not try a Christmas old fashioned cocktail to accompany your holiday feast? This classic drink is made with whiskey, bitters, and a sugar cube, and can easily be given a festive twist with the addition of seasonal spices. Sip on this cocktail while enjoying your Christmas pudding for the ultimate holiday experience.
For a unique and tasty alternative to traditional Christmas pudding, consider making a Christmas figgy pudding. This version of the dessert swaps out some of the dried fruits for fresh figs, giving it a deliciously sweet and fruity flavor. It's also a great way to use up any leftover figs you may have from other holiday recipes.
While traditional Christmas pudding may seem daunting to make, there are plenty of easy versions out there that still pack a punch in terms of flavor. These recipes often use a slow cooker or pressure cooker, making the cooking process much quicker and easier. They're a great option for those short on time but still craving a festive dessert.
12of 18
Christmas Pudding Cookies!
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Brown Sugar, Vanilla Extract
Who says Christmas pudding has to be served in its traditional form? These Christmas pudding cookies are a fun and delicious alternative that are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Made with all the classic Christmas pudding flavors, these cookies are a great addition to any holiday cookie platter.
13of 18
Old Fashioned Snowball Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Water, Vanilla, All Purpose Flour
Another classic holiday cookie that deserves a spot on your dessert table are old fashioned snowball cookies. These buttery and nutty cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance that is perfect for the holiday season. They're a simple and delicious treat that everyone will enjoy.
If you're a fan of all things old fashioned, then you'll love these old fashioned Christmas cookies. These cookies are made with a variety of holiday spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and are often decorated with colorful sprinkles or royal icing. They're a must-have on any Christmas cookie tray.
Main Ingredients: Vanilla Ice Cream, Christmas Pudding, Brandy
Who says Christmas pudding has to be served hot? This ice cream Christmas pudding is a refreshing and delicious twist on the traditional dessert. Made with vanilla ice cream, dried fruits, and brandy, this dessert is perfect for those who want to cool down after a big holiday meal.
We can't talk about Christmas pudding without mentioning the traditional version. This pudding is made with a combination of dried fruits, spices, and brandy, and is often steamed for several hours before serving. It's a rich and indulgent dessert that is steeped in history and tradition.
17of 18
Old-Fashioned Coffee Cake
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Vanilla
If you're looking for a festive breakfast option, why not try making an old fashioned coffee cake? This coffee cake is filled with warm spices and dried fruits, making it the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee on a cold Christmas morning. It's also a great way to use up any leftover Christmas pudding!
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making your own Christmas pudding vodka? This festive spirit is made by infusing vodka with all the classic Christmas pudding flavors and is perfect for sipping on during the holiday season. It also makes for a unique and thoughtful gift for the cocktail lovers in your life.
The Importance of Christmas Pudding in British Culture
Keeping Tradition Alive
Christmas pudding has been a part of British holiday celebrations since the 14th century. Originally, it was a porridge-like dish made with meat, grains, and spices. Over time, it evolved into the sweet and fruity dessert we know and love today. Despite the changes in its recipe, Christmas pudding has remained a symbol of tradition and family togetherness in British culture.
A Symbol of Good Luck
In the Victorian era, Christmas pudding was believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who ate it. This is why many families would bake small trinkets, such as coins or rings, into the pudding. It was said that whoever found these items in their serving would have good luck in the coming year. This tradition is still practiced by many families today, adding an element of fun and excitement to the holiday feast.
A Time-Consuming Labor of Love
One of the reasons why Christmas pudding holds such significance in British culture is because of the effort and time that goes into making it. Families would spend days or even weeks preparing the ingredients and steaming the pudding. This process was seen as a way to bring the family together and create cherished memories. It also added to the anticipation and excitement of the holiday season.
Making Your Own Old Fashioned Christmas Pudding
Now that you understand the cultural importance of Christmas pudding, it's time to try your hand at making one yourself. The key to a delicious old fashioned Christmas pudding is using quality ingredients and giving it enough time to mature. This means that you'll need to start preparing it a few weeks before Christmas. But don't worry, the end result will be well worth the wait.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make an old fashioned Christmas pudding, you'll need a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and alcohol. The most common fruits used are raisins, currants, and candied peel, but feel free to add your own twist with other dried fruits such as apricots or cranberries. The spices typically used are cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. You'll also need eggs, flour, breadcrumbs, suet (or vegetable shortening), and dark brown sugar. Lastly, you'll need a splash of brandy or rum for that extra kick of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by mixing your dried fruits, spices, and alcohol in a large bowl. Cover with a cloth and let it sit overnight to allow the fruits to soak up the flavors.
2. The next day, add in your eggs, flour, breadcrumbs, suet, and sugar to the fruit mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Grease a pudding basin or heatproof bowl and pour in your pudding mixture. Cover with a layer of parchment paper and a layer of foil, tied securely with string.
4. Place the pudding basin in a large pot and pour in enough water to come halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover the pot with a lid and let it steam for about 6 hours.
5. Once steamed, remove the foil and parchment paper and let the pudding cool. Once cooled, cover it again and store in a cool, dark place until Christmas.
Bringing It All Together
On Christmas day, reheat your pudding by steaming it for another 2-3 hours. Once done, carefully unmold it onto a serving dish and pour heated brandy or rum over it. Light the alcohol on fire for a dramatic presentation, and then serve with your choice of sauce or cream.
With this recipe, you can create a delicious old fashioned Christmas pudding that not only tastes amazing but also honors the rich history and tradition behind it. So gather your loved ones and get ready to savor the flavors of this iconic holiday dessert.
