It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a warm, fragrant, and deliciously traditional Christmas pudding? This beloved British dessert has been a staple of holiday gatherings for centuries, and we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to help you make this year’s celebration truly unforgettable.
From classic brandy-soaked puddings to rich chocolate indulgences, and from vegan and gluten-free options to boozy whisky-soaked treats, we’ve curated a collection that’s sure to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, these festive Christmas pudding recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday table.
Classic Brandy Christmas Pudding
A traditional British Christmas dessert, this rich and fruity pudding is infused with the warmth of brandy and perfect for serving at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (currants, raisins, and cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp mixed spice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brandy (or other spirits of your choice)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, mixed spice, and salt.
3. Stir in brandy, eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 6-cup heatproof bowl.
5. Cover with parchment paper and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pudding is dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Rich Chocolate Christmas Pudding
This decadent dessert is a perfect treat for the holiday season. With its deep, rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugars, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Add flour mixture and melted chocolate to wet ingredients. Stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding
This classic Christmas pudding recipe has been adapted to be gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup golden syrup
– 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp xanthan gum (optional)
– 1/2 tsp mixed spice
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or other spirits (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, brown sugar, golden syrup, gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if using), mixed spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Add brandy or other spirits (if using) and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
5. Place the dough in a 1-pint pudding basin or a heatproof bowl.
6. Cover with parchment paper or foil and steam for 2 hours.
7. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Vegan Spiced Christmas Pudding
Get ready to delight your loved ones with this warm, spicy, and moist vegan Christmas pudding!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegan suet or coconut oil
– 2 teaspoons mixed spice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegan brandy or non-dairy milk (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, dried fruit, brown sugar, and mixed spice.
3. Add the suet or coconut oil and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. If using vegan brandy or non-dairy milk, stir it in at this stage.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 1-pint pudding basin or a ceramic bowl.
7. Cover with foil and steam for 2 hours, or bake for 3-4 hours.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-4 hours
Enjoy your delicious vegan spiced Christmas pudding!
Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding
Get ready to impress your loved ones with this indulgent and delicious Sticky Toffee Christmas Pudding, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/2 cup (120g) sticky toffee sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, stirring until smooth.
5. Fold in chopped nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve with sticky toffee sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange and Cranberry Christmas Pudding
This festive Christmas pudding combines the warmth of orange and spices with the tanginess of cranberries, creating a unique and delicious treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup mixed peel (orange, lemon, and citron)
– 1 cup suet or vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cranberries, mixed peel, suet or shortening, brown sugar, orange juice, and brandy (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs, then stir in mixed spice, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then steam for 2-3 hours or bake for 2-2.5 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming) or 2-2.5 hours (baking)
Whisky-Soaked Christmas Pudding
Warm up your holiday season with a rich and indulgent whisky-soaked Christmas pudding, perfect for serving at your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup whiskey (your choice of brand or type)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the dried fruit, brown sugar, and whiskey. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, melted butter, mixed spice, and baking powder. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Grease a pudding basin or a 1-pint (475ml) capacity ceramic dish with butter.
5. Pour the pudding mixture into the prepared dish or basin.
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
Enjoy your whisky-soaked Christmas pudding warm, topped with brandy butter or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding
Kick off your holiday celebrations with a warm and comforting Slow Cooker Christmas Pudding, perfect for serving at parties or as a sweet treat during the festive season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir in the mixed dried fruit and brandy or rum (if using).
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Mini Individual Christmas Puddings
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a festive gathering or as a special holiday gift. With their rich, fruity flavor and moist texture, they’re sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour mini muffin tin cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add mixed dried fruit, brandy or liquor (if using), egg, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tops are golden brown and centers are set.
6. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fruit and Nut Christmas Pudding
A classic Christmas pudding recipe that combines sweet dried fruits with crunchy nuts, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, nuts, brown sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Add salt, brandy (if using), eggs, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 1-quart pudding basin or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and tie with string.
6. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 2-3 hours, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Eggless Christmas Pudding
Celebrate the holiday season with a moist and flavorful eggless Christmas pudding that’s perfect for serving at your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup suet or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
– 1 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, suet or shortening, and brandy or orange liqueur (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add mixed spice and salt; mix again until combined.
4. Grease a 1-pint pudding basin or a small ceramic bowl. Fill with the pudding mixture and cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
5. Steam the pudding for 2 hours, checking every 30 minutes to ensure the pudding hasn’t dried out. You can use a steamer basket or wrap the pudding in a clean cloth and steam it on top of boiling water.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Gingerbread Christmas Pudding
This rich and flavorful gingerbread pudding is a perfect treat to enjoy during the holiday season. Made with warm spices, dark molasses, and sweet crystallized ginger, it’s a delightful twist on traditional Christmas puddings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup dark molasses
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, chopped ginger, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Stir in cranberries and heavy cream or whole milk until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramel Apple Christmas Pudding
This moist and flavorful pudding combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the richness of buttery breadcrumbs, perfect for a cozy holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith works well)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Fold in chopped nuts (if using).
4. Add chopped apples and mix until just combined.
5. Pour caramel sauce over the apple mixture and fold gently to distribute.
6. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or individual ramekins and fill with the pudding mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rum and Raisin Christmas Pudding
A classic Christmas treat, this rich and fruity pudding is infused with the warmth of rum and topped with a sweet, sticky glaze. Perfect for serving at your holiday gathering or enjoying as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup dark rum (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in melted butter and dark rum (if using).
4. Beat eggs until well-whisked, then stir into the fruit mixture.
5. Pour mixture into a 1-quart pudding mold or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Date and Walnut Christmas Pudding
A traditional British dessert, this date and walnut Christmas pudding is a delicious treat to enjoy during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup brandy or other liquor (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped dates and walnuts.
3. Add brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add brandy or other liquor (if using) and mix until combined.
5. Beat in eggs and melted butter until smooth.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 1-pint pudding basin or a small ceramic bowl.
7. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and steam for 3-4 hours, or bake for 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (steaming) or 2-3 hours (baking)
Coconut and Mango Christmas Pudding
Coconut and Mango Christmas Pudding: A tropical twist on the classic holiday dessert!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, and cherries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mango
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon mixed spice
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, coconut, mango, rum (if using), orange zest, mixed spice, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in the melted butter 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 2-3 hours, or bake for 45-50 minutes.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (steaming) or 45-50 minutes (baking)
Spiced Pear Christmas Pudding
This traditional British dessert gets a delightful twist with the addition of sweet and tender pears, warm spices, and a hint of citrus. This spiced pear Christmas pudding is perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, and currants)
– 1/2 cup chopped pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup brandy or dark rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add melted butter, dried fruit, chopped pears, and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a greased 1-quart pudding basin or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Cover with parchment paper or aluminum foil and bake for 2-3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cherry and Almond Christmas Pudding
This traditional British pudding gets a festive twist with the addition of cherries and almonds, perfect for serving at your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs until smooth.
5. Fold in chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
6. Pour mixture into a 1-quart (1-liter) ceramic pudding dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Cover with parchment paper and steam for 2 hours, or bake at 275°F (135°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 deliciously traditional Christmas pudding recipes! From classic brandy-infused treats to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in rich chocolate, sticky toffee, or whisky-soaked puddings, or try innovative twists like orange and cranberry or caramel apple. Perfect for big gatherings or intimate celebrations, these mini individual puddings are sure to impress. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, this collection of festive recipes has everything you need to make your holiday season merry and bright!