The holiday season has arrived, and with it comes a flurry of festive treats to indulge in. Among the most iconic and beloved are Christmas puddings – rich, moist, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a sweet treat to share with loved ones, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Christmas pudding recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs. From traditional British recipes to innovative twists like chocolate and rum-infused treats, there’s something for everyone.
Traditional British Christmas Pudding
This classic Christmas pudding recipe has been a staple of British holiday traditions for centuries. Made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this rich and fruity pudding is perfect for serving at your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 cup currants
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed peel
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tsp mixed spice
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup suet or vegetable shortening
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine raisins, currants, brown sugar, mixed peel, and almonds.
3. Add flour, suet or shortening, and spices; mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg and milk until the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour in brandy or liquor (if using) and mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a greased 1-pint pudding basin or individual ramekins.
7. Cover with parchment paper and steam for 8 hours, or bake at 275°F (140°C) for 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (steaming), 2-3 hours (baking)
Rich Chocolate Christmas Pudding
This decadent Christmas pudding combines the richness of dark chocolate with the warmth of spices and dried fruits, perfect for a festive treat or gift. With its intense flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (60g) dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
4. Add milk, egg, cranberries, and pecans (if using) to the melted chocolate. Whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour into a 1-pint (475ml) pudding basin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding
Bring a taste of tradition to your holiday table with this moist and flavorful gluten-free Christmas pudding, perfect for serving warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, and melted butter.
3. Beat in egg and mix until well combined.
4. Add gluten-free flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or individual cups.
6. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours or steam for 3-4 hours.
8. Remove from oven or steamer and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (oven) or 3-4 hours (steaming)
Vegan Christmas Pudding with Dates
Get into the festive spirit with this deliciously moist vegan Christmas pudding infused with sweet and sticky dates. Perfect for a holiday gathering or as a thoughtful gift, this pudding is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
– 1/4 cup vegan brown sugar
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, dates, sugar, milk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and baking powder.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 6-cup pudding basin or small ceramic bowl.
5. Cover with foil and steam for 2 hours, then remove foil and continue steaming for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Let cool before serving. If desired, top with chopped walnuts and a drizzle of non-dairy whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 2.5 hours (including steaming time)
Spiced Orange Christmas Pudding
Elevate your holiday celebrations with this aromatic Spiced Orange Christmas Pudding, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of orange zest. Perfect for serving as a festive dessert or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dried fruit, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and brandy or orange liqueur (if using).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in orange zest and juice.
6. Pour into a 1-quart pudding basin or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and steam for 2 hours.
8. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Brandy-Infused Christmas Pudding
Elevate your holiday season with this rich and decadent brandy-infused Christmas pudding, perfect for serving at your festive gatherings. This boozy treat is made with a combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, all infused with the warmth of brandy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, and brandy. Let it sit for at least 24 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Add chopped walnuts, orange marmalade, mixed spice, salt, and cinnamon to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a heatproof bowl.
5. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and steam for 2-3 hours, or bake for 1-2 hours.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming) or 1-2 hours (baking)
Mini Christmas Puddings for Parties
Perfect for holiday gatherings, these bite-sized treats are an ideal alternative to traditional large puddings. They’re easy to make and can be served as a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon brandy or other liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and brandy or liquor (if using).
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Spoon mixture into mini muffin tin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding
Warm up your holiday season with this slow-cooked Christmas pudding, infused with the aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine brown sugar, raisins, walnuts, and spices.
2. Add brandy or rum (if using) and stir well.
3. Mix in flour and milk until smooth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding
Warm up with this traditional British treat, infused with the sweetness of dates and the richness of toffee sauce. This sticky toffee Christmas pudding is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Toffee sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 6-cup pudding basin or heatproof bowl.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine dates, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pudding basin or bowl.
6. Cover with parchment paper and steam for 2-3 hours, or cook in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours.
7. Serve warm, drizzled with toffee sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Christmas Pudding with Rum Sauce
Warm up your holiday season with this classic Christmas pudding recipe, perfectly paired with a rich and creamy rum sauce. This traditional dessert is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Christmas Pudding:
– 1 cup dried fruit (currants, raisins, cranberries)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
For the Rum Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, sugar, flour, salt, mixed spice, and cinnamon.
3. Add brandy or rum (if using), egg, and melted butter; mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Cover with parchment paper and steam for 2-1/2 hours.
6. For the Rum Sauce, combine cream, sugar, butter, rum, and vanilla extract in a saucepan; cook over medium heat until smooth.
7. Serve warm Christmas pudding with rum sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (pudding), 5 minutes (rum sauce)
Fruit and Nut Christmas Pudding
A classic Christmas dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season! This fruit and nut pudding is a delicious and traditional treat that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruits, nuts, brown sugar, granulated sugar, mixed spice, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and pour in the mixture.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. If using brandy or orange juice, drizzle over the pudding while it’s still warm.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Eggless Christmas Pudding
Celebrate the holiday season with a delicious eggless Christmas pudding that’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. This traditional fruitcake is packed with nuts, spices, and dried fruits, making it a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add dried fruits, almonds, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or individual ramekins.
5. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Christmas Pudding Ice Cream
Add a festive twist to your holiday dessert routine with this unique and delicious Christmas Pudding Ice Cream recipe. This creamy treat captures the warm spices and dried fruit of traditional Christmas pudding in an icy, refreshing package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Stir in dried cranberries, candied orange peel, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on your ice cream maker)
Christmas Pudding Trifle
This classic trifle recipe combines moist Christmas pudding with creamy custard, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds, making it a show-stopping dessert for your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Christmas pudding
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– Whipped cream and holly sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add sugar and vanilla extract; whip until combined.
3. Cut the Christmas pudding into small cubes.
4. In a separate container, layer half of the whipped cream, Christmas pudding, and sliced strawberries.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining whipped cream on top.
6. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the trifle.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble and chill!
Microwave Christmas Pudding
Get a head start on your holiday baking with this speedy microwave Christmas pudding recipe! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a warm and delicious dessert perfect for serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons brandy or rum (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, sugar, dried fruit, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Add the brandy or rum (if using) and butter to the mixture.
3. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
4. Remove from microwave and stir until the mixture is smooth.
5. Return to microwave and cook for an additional 15-20 seconds, or until the pudding is puffed and warm.
Cooking Time: 1 minute 15-20 seconds
Christmas Pudding Cheesecake
This unique dessert combines the rich flavors of Christmas pudding with the creaminess of cheesecake, perfect for a festive holiday gathering. With its moist and fruity filling, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite.
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 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup Christmas pudding mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in Christmas pudding mix.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Christmas Pudding Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes capture the essence of traditional Christmas pudding, with its warm spices and sweet raisins. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Christmas Pudding Bread and Butter Pudding
Warm up your holiday season with this delightful twist on a classic bread pudding recipe, infused with the flavors of Christmas pudding. This rich and comforting dessert is perfect for serving at family gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale Christmas pudding bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Add the bread cubes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Pudding Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are infused with the warm spices and dried fruit of traditional Christmas pudding, perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy these tasty treats all season long.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon raisins
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, 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 dried cranberries and raisins.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (4-5 pancakes at a time)
Christmas Pudding Smoothie Bowl
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive and delicious smoothie bowl! A perfect treat to enjoy while watching your favorite Christmas movies or as a healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Whipped cream and holly sprigs for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with rolled oats, chopped walnuts (if using), whipped cream, and holly sprigs (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 festive Christmas pudding recipes! From traditional British pudding to rich chocolate and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in spiced orange, brandy-infused, and sticky toffee puddings, or try your hand at mini puddings for parties or slow cooker treats. And don’t forget the sweet treats like Christmas pudding ice cream, trifle, cheesecake, cupcakes, bread and butter pudding, pancakes, and even a smoothie bowl! Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to bring joy to your holiday gathering.
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