Ultimate Christmas Pudding Recipe (Moist, Rich & Foolproof for 2025)
The holiday classic that tastes like nostalgia — with a lighter, modern twist.
Why This Christmas Pudding Stands Out
christmas pudding has been a holiday icon for centuries, but in 2025, cooks want something traditional yet not too heavy. This version gives you the rich, nostalgic flavor everyone expects — but with a lighter texture, balanced sweetness, and a beautifully moist crumb.
Inspired by classic British techniques and modern flavor layering, this recipe is easy, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to impress your Christmas table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Dried Fruits Mix
- 150g raisins
- 150g sultanas
- 150g currants
- 80g dried apricots, chopped
- 80g dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
Flavor & Moisture
- 150ml dark rum or brandy (or apple juice for non-alcoholic)
- 150g dark brown sugar
- 2 tbsp black treacle (or molasses)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 small apple, grated
Dry Ingredients
- 150g self-rising flour
- 150g fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Fat & Eggs
- 150g cold butter, grated
- 2 large eggs
Instructions (Simple & Authentic)
1. Soak the Fruit Overnight
In a large bowl, combine all dried fruits, citrus zest, and rum/brandy.
Cover and let it soak overnight (or microwave for 2 minutes for a quick version).
2. Prep the Batter
Add the brown sugar, grated apple, treacle, and vanilla to the fruit mixture. Mix well until glossy and fragrant.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the flour, breadcrumbs, salt, and spices.
4. Add Butter and Eggs
Fold in the grated butter, then mix in the eggs until your batter is thick and sticky.
5. Steam the Pudding
- Spoon mixture into a greased 1-liter pudding basin.
- Cover with parchment and foil, and tie with string.
- Place the basin in a pot with boiling water halfway up the sides.
- Steam for 3 hours, topping up with water as needed.
6. Rest for Best Flavor
Once cooled, store in a cool, dark place for up to 4 weeks. The flavor deepens beautifully with time.
7. Reheat Before Serving
Steam for 1 hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm brandy or vanilla custard
- A scoop of ice cream for modern flair
- Orange slices and toasted almonds
- A dusting of icing sugar for a snowy finish
Serve your Christmas pudding alongside festive treats like easy Christmas cookies for a complete holiday dessert spread.
Conclusion
This Christmas pudding combines traditional flavors with a lighter, modern touch. Moist, richly spiced, and easy to make ahead, it is the perfect festive dessert to impress family and friends. Make it part of your holiday tradition and enjoy a classic treat with every slice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Pudding
What are the 13 ingredients in Christmas pudding?
A traditional Christmas pudding typically includes: raisins, sultanas, currants, dried apricots, dried cranberries, apple, orange zest, lemon zest, brown sugar, flour, breadcrumbs, butter or suet, and eggs. Optional ingredients include mixed candied peel, treacle, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
What ingredients are in Christmas pudding?
The core ingredients are dried fruits, citrus zest, sugar, fat (butter or suet), flour, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. Alcohol such as brandy or rum is usually added to enhance flavor and help preserve the pudding.
How to make a simple Christmas pudding?
Soak your dried fruits in alcohol overnight, mix them with sugar, grated apple, butter, eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs. Place the mixture in a greased pudding basin, cover with parchment and foil, steam for several hours, and serve with brandy butter, cream, or custard.
What exactly is Christmas pudding?
Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding or figgy pudding, is a traditional British dessert made with dried fruits, spices, and often alcohol. It is steamed rather than baked and traditionally served at Christmas, often flambéed with brandy.
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