Deliciously Festive: The Ultimate Christmas Pudding Recipe from Odlums

Deliciously Festive: The Ultimate Christmas Pudding Recipe from Odlums

Written by Jessica Lopez

6 REVIEWS | 4.5 AVERAGE

Published at 03-02-2023

Edited on 03/19/2025 | 02:33 PM

Dessert Recipes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: British

Difficulty: Moderate

Servings

10-12 slices

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cooking Time

2 hours

Total Time

2 hours 25 minutes

Fat

20g

Protein

6g

Carbs

60g

Calories

500 kcal

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a traditional Christmas pudding? This delightful dessert is a staple at festive gatherings, and the Odlums Christmas pudding recipe brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your table. Rich in flavor and brimming with dried fruits, spices, and a hint of brandy, this pudding is not just a treat for your taste buds but also an integral part of the Christmas spirit. Making Christmas pudding can seem daunting, but with Odlums’ easy-to-follow recipe, you'll find that it's a truly enjoyable process. The combination of sultanas, currants, and mixed peel, along with the warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your senses.

Plus, the best part about this recipe is that it can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and mature, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert for your holiday celebrations. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen and enjoy the festive atmosphere as you mix, stir, and prepare this classic pudding. Don’t forget the fun tradition of adding a silver coin for luck – a practice that adds an element of surprise and joy to the celebration! Serve it warm with a splash of brandy and a dollop of cream, and watch as your guests savor every delicious bite. So, let’s dive into the world of holiday baking and create a memorable Christmas pudding that will be cherished for generations to come.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this wonderful Odlums recipe!.

Essential Ingredients of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (300g)

  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup (75g)

  • Brown sugar: 1 cup (200g)

  • Butter: 1/2 cup (115g), softened

  • Milk: 1 cup (240ml)

  • Eggs: 2 large

  • Mixed dried fruits: 1 1/2 cups (200g)

  • Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg): 1 teaspoon each

  • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons

  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

Measurement Units of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • 225g Odlums All-Purpose Flour

  • 225g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)

  • 100g brown sugar

  • 100g breadcrumbs

  • 100g shredded suet or vegetable shortening

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 150ml milk

  • 50ml brandy or rum (optional)

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Zest of 1 orange

Step by Step Instructions For christmas pudding recipe odlums

Step by Step Instructions For christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Step - 1

    Begin by gathering all your ingredients in one place. For this traditional Odlums Christmas pudding, you will need flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, mixed dried fruits, spices, eggs, and a splash of stout or beer for that rich flavor.

  • Step - 2

    Prepare your pudding basin by lightly greasing it with butter. This step is crucial as it will help the pudding easily release once it's cooked. Choose a basin that can hold about 1.5 liters to accommodate the mixture comfortably.

  • Step - 3

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits, breadcrumbs, and mixed spices. This blend will create the base of your pudding, offering a burst of festive flavors. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly for an even distribution.

  • Step - 4

    In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This aeration will help your pudding rise beautifully, giving it a light texture despite its dense ingredients.

  • Step - 5

    Now, gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. This should include the egg mixture and your chosen stout or beer. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all components are well mixed without overworking the batter.

  • Step - 6

    Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared pudding basin. Use a spatula to level the top so it cooks evenly. Don’t forget to leave some space at the top, as the pudding will expand while steaming.

  • Step - 7

    Cover the pudding basin with a layer of parchment paper, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer will protect the pudding from water during steaming, keeping it moist and flavorful.

  • Step - 8

    Prepare a large pot or steamer and fill it with water, ensuring the water level is about halfway up the sides of the pudding basin. Bring the water to a gentle simmer before placing the pudding in the pot.

  • Step - 9

    Steam the pudding for approximately 6 to 8 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water doesn't evaporate completely. This slow cooking method is key to achieving a rich, deep flavor and a moist texture.

  • Step - 10

    Once the steaming is complete, carefully remove the pudding from the pot and allow it to cool. You can keep it wrapped in its foil and parchment for a few days or even weeks until you're ready to serve it, enhancing its flavors as it ages.

Additional Notes of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. This helps the ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a light and fluffy pudding.

  • Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined to maintain a good texture.

  • Make sure to soak the dried fruits in warm water or tea for a few hours before using. This plumps them up and enhances the flavor.

  • Traditionally, Christmas pudding is steamed for several hours, so ensure you have a suitable steamer or a large pot with a lid.

  • Let the pudding rest for a day or two before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  • Serve with a rich sauce, such as brandy butter or custard, for a delightful finish to your festive meal.

  • If you want to make it ahead of time, Christmas pudding can be made weeks in advance and stored in a cool, dark place.

  • When reheating, steam the pudding again to ensure it stays moist and delicious.

Special Equipment of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)

  • Mixing bowls

  • Pudding basin or heatproof bowl

  • Large pot for steaming

  • Aluminum foil

  • String or twine

Expert Chef Tips of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Make sure to soak the dried fruits overnight in a mix of rum or brandy for deeper flavor.

  • Use a mix of spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and allspice to elevate the pudding's warmth.

  • Ensure you steam the pudding for at least 6 hours to achieve the perfect texture.

  • Let your pudding rest for a few days before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  • When serving, warm the pudding gently and pour over a rich brandy sauce for the ultimate festive treat.

Ingredient Sourcing and Quality Tips of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Dried fruits: Choose organic or high-quality dried fruits to enhance natural sweetness.

  • Suet: Look for high-quality beef or vegetable suet; this adds richness and moisture.

  • Spices: Freshly ground spices will provide a more vibrant flavor profile.

  • Flour: Select unbleached all-purpose flour for a richer texture.

  • Sugar: Use golden caster sugar for a subtle caramel flavor that complements the pudding.

Dietary Considerations of christmas pudding recipe odlums

Dietary Considerations of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Christmas pudding is traditionally made with a variety of fruits and nuts, making it a rich source of natural sweetness and fiber. This can be beneficial for digestive health.

  • For those managing their sugar intake, consider using unsweetened dried fruits or reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe. This allows you to enjoy the festive flavors without excess sugar.

  • If you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, you can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends. This ensures that everyone at your holiday table can enjoy a slice.

  • Christmas pudding is often high in calories due to its dense ingredients. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of butter or replace it with applesauce for moisture.

  • Vegan options are available for Christmas pudding by replacing eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, and using plant-based milk instead of dairy.

  • If you are avoiding nuts due to allergies, simply omit them from the recipe. You can add extra dried fruits or seeds for texture and flavor instead.

  • For those who follow a low-carb diet, using sugar alternatives such as erythritol or stevia can help reduce the overall carbohydrate content of the pudding.

  • Christmas pudding can be made dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and ensuring that any additional ingredients like butter are replaced with dairy-free alternatives.

  • To make your Christmas pudding more heart-healthy, you can incorporate more fruits, such as grated carrots and apples, which add natural sweetness and moisture.

  • Consider the portion sizes when serving Christmas pudding. Enjoying a small slice can satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your calorie intake in check.

  • If you are preparing a pudding for children or those sensitive to alcohol, you can substitute traditional alcohol with fruit juices or simply omit it altogether.

  • For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to your dry ingredients. This can enhance the nutritional profile without compromising the flavor.

  • When making Christmas pudding, always look for organic or ethically sourced ingredients. This not only benefits your health but also supports sustainable farming practices.

  • If you are preparing the pudding ahead of time, remember to store it correctly to maintain its freshness. Wrap it tightly in wax paper and foil before refrigerating.

  • Lastly, always check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients like dried fruits or spices to ensure they do not contain any hidden allergens or additives.

My Review On christmas pudding recipe odlums

If you’re looking for a festive dessert that captures the essence of Christmas, the Odlums Christmas Pudding recipe is a must-try! This traditional recipe combines rich fruits, warm spices, and a hint of brandy to create a sumptuous pudding that’s perfect for the holiday season. The process may seem daunting, but with Odlums, the instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers at any skill level. The mix of sultanas, currants, and mixed peel results in a wonderfully moist texture, while the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma. One of the best parts is that this pudding can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. Serve it with a splash of brandy butter or custard to elevate your dessert experience. This Odlums Christmas Pudding is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished holiday tradition in your home!

Related Dishes of christmas pudding recipe odlums

  • Carrot Cake: A spiced, moist cake topped with cream cheese frosting that adds a delightful sweetness and texture contrast to the rich flavors of Christmas pudding.

  • Classic Pound Cake: This dense, buttery cake pairs beautifully with fruit toppings, offering a light and airy complement to the heavier pudding.

  • Sticky Toffee Pudding: A warm, indulgent dessert made with dates and drenched in a rich toffee sauce, perfect for those who love sweet, comforting treats.

  • Fruitcake: A traditional holiday dessert filled with dried fruits and nuts, its robust flavors make it a wonderful companion to the festive Christmas pudding.

  • Minced Pie: A shortcrust pastry filled with a spiced mixture of dried fruits and nuts, adding a lovely bite-sized finish to your Christmas feast.

Authoritative Cookbooks or Chefs of christmas pudding recipe odlums

The Complete Book of Christmas Cooking

by Odlums

Christmas Puddings and Other Festive Treats

by Mary Berry

Cultural and Historical Context of christmas pudding recipe odlums

Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages when it was originally a porridge-like dish. Over the centuries, this festive dessert evolved into a dense, spiced pudding made with dried fruits, suet, and a blend of warming spices. Traditionally steamed and served on Christmas Day, Christmas pudding is steeped in cultural significance. It is said that the ingredients symbolize the 12 apostles, and families would stir the mixture together while making a wish. This delightful dessert is often topped with a sprig of holly and flambéed with brandy before serving, adding a touch of drama to the festive table. Odlums has embraced this tradition, providing a reliable recipe that allows home bakers to recreate this beloved dish, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas continues to be celebrated through food.

Frequently Asked Questions About christmas pudding recipe odlums

Reviews of christmas pudding recipe odlums

Emily Johnson

I made the Odlums Christmas pudding for our family gathering, and it was a hit! The flavors were rich and festive, and it steamed beautifully. Everyone asked for seconds. Will definitely make it a holiday tradition!

★★★★★

Michael Thompson

This recipe was straightforward and yielded a moist, flavorful pudding. I added some extra spices for a personal touch, and it turned out fantastic. Perfect for Christmas dinner. Highly recommend!

★★★★

Sarah Williams

I was a bit intimidated at first, but the Odlums Christmas pudding recipe was easy to follow. The result was delicious! It paired wonderfully with brandy sauce. My family loved it, and I felt accomplished!

★★★★★

David Brown

I followed the Odlums recipe closely, and while the pudding was tasty, it came out a bit denser than I expected. Still, it was enjoyable, especially with a scoop of ice cream. I might tweak it next time.

★★★

Laura Garcia

This Christmas pudding recipe is a winner! The combination of dried fruits and spices created a delightful aroma in my kitchen. It was the perfect ending to our holiday feast. I’ll be making it again next year!

★★★★★

James Miller

I tried the Odlums Christmas pudding recipe, and it was a great experience. The pudding had a lovely flavor, but I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. Overall, a solid recipe that I might adjust in the future.

★★★★
Hi! I’m Jessica Lopez

Jessica Lopez is a passionate home cook, food enthusiast, and storyteller who believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s an experience. Through her blog, she shares recipes, culinary adventures, and inspiration to help others explore new flavors and embrace the joy of cooking. Whether experimenting with ingredients, recreating family favorites, or discovering global cuisines, Jessica’s mission is to connect people through the art of food, one delicious dish at a time.