Oh, let me tell you about *plum pudding*! This delightful dessert has its roots deep in British tradition, often making an appearance during the holidays. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting scent of spices and sweet dried fruits—absolutely magical! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! Rich with flavors and history, every slice tells a story, and I love sharing it with family. Trust me, once you taste this moist, spiced pudding, you’ll want to make it a festive tradition in your own home!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (think raisins, currants, and chopped apricots for a delightful mix)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (this is the base that holds everything together)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (they add a lovely texture to the pudding)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for that rich, caramel-like sweetness)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy for easy mixing)
- 2 large eggs (they’ll help bind all those glorious ingredients)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to give the pudding a little lift)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for that warm, comforting flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds a cozy spice note)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1/2 cup milk (to keep the batter smooth and moist)
How to Prepare Plum Pudding
Alright, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious plum pudding! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, starting with a hot oven is key to getting that perfect texture. While that’s warming up, grab a big mixing bowl and toss together your mixed dried fruits, flour, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure it’s all well combined—this is where the magic begins!
Now, in another bowl, cream your softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it really helps to incorporate air into the pudding. Next, add in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After that, combine the wet and dry ingredients just until everything is mixed together—overmixing can lead to a dense pudding, and we don’t want that!
Gradually stir in the milk until your batter is smooth and luscious. Now it’s time to pour that beautiful mixture into a greased pudding mold. Bake it for about an hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When it’s done, let it cool a bit before serving. I promise, the wait is worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients and dried fruits.
- Cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.
- Gradually add milk until the batter is smooth.
- Pour into a greased pudding mold and bake for 1 hour.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Let cool before serving and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a delightful taste of tradition—every bite is packed with the warm flavors of spices and sweet dried fruits.
- Super easy to make, even if you’re a beginner! You don’t need fancy equipment, just some bowls and a whisk.
- The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible—your friends and family won’t be able to resist coming in for a taste!
- Perfect for festive occasions, it really brings people together. Imagine sharing this warm pudding with loved ones during the holidays!
- It’s a versatile dessert; you can customize it with your favorite dried fruits or spices to make it your own.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) can be enjoyed for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your plum pudding turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you succeed:
- Ingredient substitutions: If you can’t find mixed dried fruits, feel free to use your favorites! Dried figs, cherries, or even cranberries can add a lovely twist.
- Freshness matters: For the best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh. Nothing beats the aroma of freshly ground cinnamon or nutmeg!
- Butter temperature: Always start with softened butter; it makes a world of difference when creaming it with sugar. If you forget to take it out, just give it a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds—but be careful not to melt it!
- Adding some kick: Want to elevate your pudding? Consider stirring in a splash of brandy or rum for a more festive flavor. Just a tablespoon can do wonders!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should last for about 2 months!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your pudding again, just pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or steam it gently to retain moisture. Serve it warm for the best experience!
Variations of Plum Pudding
Let’s get creative with your plum pudding! This traditional dessert is wonderfully adaptable, and I love experimenting with different flavors to keep things exciting. Here are some variations that will inspire you:
- Fruit Medley: Swap out the mixed dried fruits for your favorites! Try using dried figs, apricots, or even tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, you can play around with spices like ginger or cardamom to add a different layer of warmth. Just a teaspoon can transform the flavor!
- Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. They not only add texture but also a delightful nuttiness that complements the sweetness of the pudding.
- Chocolate Lovers: For a rich variation, fold in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the batter. It adds a decadent touch that’s sure to please any chocolate enthusiast!
- Citrus Zing: Zest some orange or lemon into your batter for a refreshing kick. It brightens up the flavors and gives the pudding a light, zesty finish.
- Holiday Cheer: Infuse your pudding with some festive cheer by adding a splash of brandy or rum. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely depth that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
These variations keep the essence of the traditional plum pudding while allowing your creativity to shine through. Have fun experimenting, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary quite a bit based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. The following nutritional information is an estimate and serves as a general guideline:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 4g
Always consider these numbers as estimates, and adjust based on your ingredients to get a more accurate picture. Happy baking!
FAQ Section
How do I store leftover plum pudding? You can store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it up!
Can I make plum pudding ahead of time? Absolutely! Plum pudding is great for making in advance. You can prepare it a day or two ahead and let it sit in the fridge to enhance the flavors. Just reheat it gently before serving.
How long does plum pudding last? When properly stored, your plum pudding can last in the fridge for about a week. If you freeze it, it can be kept for about 2 months. Just wrap it tightly, and you’ll be good to go!
Can I reheat plum pudding? Yes, you can! Simply slice the pudding and pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or steam it gently to prevent it from drying out. It’s best enjoyed warm!
What’s the best way to serve plum pudding? I love serving plum pudding warm with a generous pour of custard over the top. It adds that creamy touch that complements the spices beautifully. You could also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Can I add more fruits or nuts to the recipe? Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your dried fruits or even add some nuts for a delightful crunch. Just make sure to keep the overall quantity similar so it bakes correctly!
Serving Suggestions
Now, let’s talk about the best part—serving your glorious plum pudding! Trust me, this dessert shines brightest when it’s paired with the right accompaniments. My absolute favorite is to serve it warm with a generous drizzle of creamy custard. The rich, velvety custard just seeps into the pudding, and it’s pure bliss!
If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is another fantastic option. The coolness of the cream cuts through the warm spices of the pudding beautifully. You could even sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra touch of flair!
For a lovely presentation, you can slice the pudding into wedges and arrange them on a beautiful serving platter. Garnish with a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint to add a pop of color. It’s all about making that inviting plate that’ll make everyone go, “Wow!”
And don’t forget, a splash of brandy or rum over the top can really elevate the festive spirit! Just warm it slightly, ignite it for a moment (carefully!), and pour it over the pudding right before serving. It’s a dramatic way to impress your guests and enhance those rich flavors!
So, gather around the table, share the warmth of your plum pudding, and enjoy every delightful bite with those you love. It’s a beautiful way to create memories and celebrate the joy of good food!
For more festive recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
For a delicious twist on traditional desserts, you might also enjoy our Peach Cobbler Recipe.
And if you’re interested in learning more about the history of plum pudding, visit BBC Good Food for an insightful read.
Print
Plum pudding: 7 magical steps to a festive delight
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional dessert made with dried fruits and spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix dried fruits, flour, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Mix well.
- Add milk gradually until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pudding mold.
- Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with custard.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- You can add brandy for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Plum pudding, dessert, traditional, British, holiday