Traditional Plum Pudding

Name: Traditional Plum Pudding
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup raisins; 1 1/2 cup currants; 1 cup mixed peel (finely chopped); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 cup bread crumbs; 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 4 large eggs (beaten); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup brandy

270 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in a classic festive dessert with this rich and flavourful traditional plum pudding, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Prep

30 min

Cook

240 min

Total

270 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Plum pudding, a quintessential holiday dessert, is a beloved tradition in many Canadian households, especially during Christmas time. Despite its name, plum pudding doesn't actually contain plums but instead is packed with a variety of dried fruits and spices, making it a rich and indulgent treat. This version of plum pudding brings together the flavours of raisins, currants, and mixed peel, all enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The pudding is steamed to perfection, resulting in a moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth. Ideal for anyone seeking to recreate the warmth and nostalgia of a traditional festive dessert, this recipe ensures a delightful and memorable experience.

Instructions

Prepare the fruit mixture

In a large bowl, combine the raisins, currants, and mixed peel.

Pro tip: Ensure all dried fruits are well mixed for even distribution.

Mix dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, bread crumbs, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the melted butter, milk, and brandy.

Pro tip: Bring eggs to room temperature for better mixing.

Combine all ingredients

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, then fold in the fruit mixture until well combined.

Prepare for steaming

Grease a 1.2-litre (1 1/4-quart) pudding basin. Spoon in the pudding mixture, pressing down gently. Cover with a round of greased parchment paper and a layer of foil, securing with string.

Pro tip: Leave a little room for the pudding to expand.

Steam the pudding

Place the basin in a large pot and fill with water halfway up the sides. Cover and steam for 4 hours on low heat. Check occasionally to ensure water remains at the correct level.

Pro tip: Use a trivet or an upside-down plate in the pot to keep the basin stable.

Check for doneness

Insert a skewer into the pudding. If it comes out clean, the pudding is done.

Pro tip: Re-steam if needed if the skewer does not come out clean.

Cool and store

Allow the pudding to cool in the basin before unmoulding. Store wrapped in parchment and foil in a cool, dry place.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Prepare the pudding a day ahead for best results.
Ensure the steaming water does not touch the pudding basin.
Use a skewer to check doneness; it should come out clean.
Serve with a generous pour of custard or brandy butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is plum pudding ii?

Plum pudding ii is a traditional holiday dessert, similar to the original plum pudding, featuring dried fruits, spices, and a rich, moist texture.

Does plum pudding contain plums?

Despite its name, plum pudding does not contain plums. It is made with dried fruits like raisins and currants.

How long does it take to steam a plum pudding?

It takes about 4 hours to steam a plum pudding.

Can plum pudding be made ahead?

Yes, plum pudding can be made ahead and stored for up to a month in a cool, dry place.

What should I serve with plum pudding?

Plum pudding is traditionally served with custard or brandy butter.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your plum pudding, slice it up and accompany it with a generous spoonful of custard or a dollop of brandy butter for an extra touch of luxury. The pudding pairs beautifully with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. You can prepare the pudding ahead of time and store it in a cool, dry place for up to a month. When you're ready to indulge, reheat it by steaming for about an hour. This make-ahead option makes it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

Protein

15g

Fat

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