Get ready to transform your holiday dessert table with the most enchanting Christmas pudding you've ever tasted! Our "Very Berry Merry Christmas Pud" isn't just a dessert – it's a festive experience that combines traditional British charm with a burst of vibrant berry flavors. Imagine a rich, steamed pudding packed with plump dried fruits and tangy cranberries, spiced to perfection and guaranteed to make your guests swoon with delight. This isn't just another holiday recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that will become your new Christmas tradition!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 250g mixed dried fruits
- 100g fresh cranberries
- 100g breadcrumbs
- 100g dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp mixed spice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your dried fruit mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and fresh cranberries. Pour over hot water and allow to soak for 30 minutes to plump and soften the fruits.
- Drain the soaked fruits and pat them gently with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Chop the fruits into smaller, more uniform pieces if desired.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the dark brown sugar and eggs until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air and create a lighter pudding texture.
- Fold in the breadcrumbs and mixed spice into the sugar and egg mixture, ensuring even distribution of spices throughout the batter.
- Gently fold the prepared fruit mixture into the batter, stirring carefully to maintain the airiness of the mixture.
- Grease a 1-liter pudding basin thoroughly with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the pudding mixture into the prepared basin, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Cut a piece of parchment paper and aluminum foil large enough to cover the basin, creating a tight seal. Pleat the center to allow room for expansion during cooking.
- Secure the covering with kitchen string, creating a watertight seal around the basin's rim.
- Place the pudding basin into a large steamer or a deep pot with a rack, ensuring the basin doesn't touch the bottom. Fill the pot with boiling water halfway up the basin's side.
- Cover and steam the pudding for 2 hours, checking water levels periodically and topping up with boiling water as needed.
- After cooking, carefully remove the basin from the steamer and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before turning out onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm with brandy butter, custard, or fresh cream. The pudding can be stored in a cool, dark place and reheated on Christmas Day by steaming for an additional hour.
Tips
- • Soak your fruits in advance to ensure maximum moisture and flavor infusion • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste • Don't rush the steaming process – patience is key to a perfect pudding texture • Make sure to create a tight seal with parchment and foil to prevent water from entering • Check water levels regularly during steaming to maintain consistent heat • For an extra festive touch, consider serving with a flambé brandy butter • The pudding can be made ahead and reheated, making it perfect for busy holiday preparations • Store in a cool, dark place if preparing in advance to preserve its rich flavors
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 279kcal
Carbohydrates: 61g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 62mg
