It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And what’s a holiday season without a delicious, warm, and comforting Christmas pudding to share with loved ones? This classic dessert has been a staple of holiday gatherings for centuries, and we’re excited to bring you 18 scrumptious variations to try. From traditional recipes infused with brandy and spices to modern twists featuring chocolate, coconut cream, and even whisky, there’s something for every taste and dietary need.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newbie, these festive Christmas pudding recipes will guide you through the process of creating a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let’s dive into the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas pudding style!
Classic Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce
A traditional British dessert, this rich and fruity pudding is a staple of the holiday season. Steeped in brandy and served warm, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the pudding:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (such as cranberries and cherries)
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liqueur
For the brandy sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brandy or other liqueur
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, brown sugar, eggs, raisins, and dried fruit; mix until well combined.
4. Stir in brandy or liqueur.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 1-quart pudding basin or ceramic bowl.
6. Cover with parchment paper and tie with string.
7. Steam pudding for 8 hours or bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2-3 hours.
8. For the brandy sauce, combine heavy cream, butter, brandy or liqueur, and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (steaming) or 2-3 hours (baking)
Rich Chocolate Christmas Pudding
Elevate your holiday celebrations with this decadent Rich Chocolate Christmas Pudding recipe, perfect for serving at your festive gathering or as a thoughtful gift to loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped hazelnuts or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and melted butter until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine chocolate chips, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the flour mixture and chopped nuts to the chocolate mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or a 1-quart (1L) pudding mold.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or steam-cook according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Let cool, then serve with whipped cream and festive holly garnish.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Orange and Cranberry Christmas Pudding
This sweet and tangy pudding is infused with the aromas of orange, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making it a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. The combination of succulent cranberries and creamy eggs creates a delightful texture that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup brandy or dark rum (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cranberries, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Stir in orange juice and brandy or rum (if using).
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Fold in melted butter.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and steam for 2-3 hours, or bake at 275°F (135°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming), or 45-50 minutes (baking)
Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding with Almond Flour
This gluten-free Christmas pudding recipe uses almond flour to create a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for the holiday season. With its nutty flavor and tender texture, this pudding is sure to be a hit at your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 1-pint pudding basin or a 6-cup heatproof bowl.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and salt.
4. Stir in mixed dried fruit and brandy or orange liqueur (if using).
5. Pour mixture into prepared pudding basin or bowl.
6. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and cook for 2-3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vegan Christmas Pudding with Coconut Cream
A traditional Christmas pudding gets a tropical twist with the addition of coconut cream, creating a rich and creamy dessert perfect for the holiday season. This vegan version is just as decadent and indulgent as its non-vegan counterpart.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon brandy or vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mixed fruit and stir until well combined.
4. Pour in coconut cream and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 6-cup muffin tin.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before serving with additional coconut cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding
Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding Recipe
A classic British dessert, this sticky toffee pudding is a show-stopper on any holiday table. With its moist and flavorful cake, gooey toffee sauce, and crispy pecans, it’s sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Toffee sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool before serving with toffee sauce.
Toffee Sauce:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Combine butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a small saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Whisky-Soaked Christmas Pudding
Warm up with a rich and indulgent Whisky-Soaked Christmas Pudding, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whisky (Scotch or Irish work well)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the whisky and mix until the fruit is evenly coated.
4. Beat in the egg and butter until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a small ceramic dish.
6. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the top is firm and the pudding is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Mini Christmas Puddings with Custard
Mini Christmas Puddings with Custard: A Festive Treat for Small Gatherings
These bite-sized puddings are perfect for a holiday party or a small gathering of friends and family. With their rich flavors and velvety custard, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup brandy or other fruit liqueur (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries and cherries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, melted butter, brandy or liqueur (if using), baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Fold in chopped cranberries and cherries.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a pudding comes out clean.
6. Allow puddings to cool completely before serving with warm custard (recipe below).
Custard:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Combine milk, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks. Serve warm.
Christmas Pudding Ice Cream
Get ready to add a festive twist to your holiday season with this unique and delicious Christmas Pudding Ice Cream! This creamy treat combines the flavors of traditional Christmas pudding with the richness of ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, cherries, and raisins)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or hazelnuts
– 2 tbsp Christmas pudding extract (or substitute with a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars dissolve and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, dried fruit, nuts, and Christmas pudding extract (or spice blend).
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (ice cream churning time varies depending on machine)
Gingerbread Christmas Pudding
Gingerbread Christmas Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic fruitcake, infused with the warmth of ginger and spices. Perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or as a special treat for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1 tablespoon crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in dried fruit and chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Pour mixture into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fig and Walnut Christmas Pudding
This sweet and savory pudding combines the natural sweetness of figs and the earthy flavor of walnuts, making it a unique addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Butter, melted (for greasing the pudding basin)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and chopped figs to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased pudding basin or a 1-quart (1-liter) baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Christmas Pudding Cheesecake
This creamy cheesecake combines the warm spices of Christmas pudding with the richness of cream cheese, perfect for a holiday dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp instant coffee powder (optional)
– 1/2 cup Christmas pudding mixture (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Stir in heavy cream and coffee powder (if using).
5. Fold in Christmas pudding mixture.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding
Give your holiday celebrations an extra boost with this moist and flavorful slow cooker Christmas pudding. Perfect for serving at your next gathering, this recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, chopped walnuts, mixed spice, and salt.
2. Add the brandy or liquor (if using), dried cranberries, and orange marmalade to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until a sticky batter forms.
4. Grease a 6-quart slow cooker and add the pudding mixture.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Christmas Pudding Trifle
Christmas Pudding Trifle Recipe: A Layered Masterpiece of Flavors!
This show-stopping trifle is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season, combining moist Christmas pudding with creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and crunchy biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Christmas pudding, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 cup milk biscuits, crushed
– Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
2. In a separate bowl, combine diced Christmas pudding and whipped cream mixture. Mix well to coat.
3. Spoon half of the pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large trifle dish.
4. Top with sliced strawberries and crushed biscuits.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 for the remaining pudding mixture.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Cherry and Almond Christmas Pudding
Celebrate the festive season with this sweet and nutty treat, perfect for serving at your holiday gatherings. This rich pudding is packed with dried cherries, crunchy almonds, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cherries, cranberries, raisins)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add chopped almonds and brandy or liquor (if using), stirring until evenly distributed.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into prepared loaf pan and bake for 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Christmas Pudding Bread and Butter Pudding
A delicious twist on a classic bread pudding recipe, this Christmas-inspired treat combines the flavors of sweet bread, buttery goodness, and warm spices to create a perfect holiday dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale Christmas pudding bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Add bread cubes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Pudding Pancakes with Caramel Sauce
Celebrate the holiday season with a sweet and indulgent breakfast or brunch treat – Christmas pudding pancakes with caramel sauce! This recipe combines the warm spices of traditional Christmas pudding with fluffy pancake batter, topped with a rich and sticky caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
5. Cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Christmas Pudding Fudge
This festive fudge recipe combines the warmth of Christmas pudding with the richness of chocolate, making it a perfect treat for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (400g) marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the marshmallows, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (refrigeration time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the festive spirit with these 18 deliciously traditional Christmas pudding recipes! From classic and rich chocolate puddings to spiced orange and cranberry, gluten-free, vegan, and whisky-soaked options, there’s something for everyone. Try making mini puddings with custard or a Christmas pudding ice cream, or get creative with gingerbread, fig and walnut, cheesecake, slow cooker, trifle, cherry and almond, bread and butter pudding, pancakes with caramel sauce, or fudge. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will bring joy to your holiday celebrations!
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