The Queen’s Christmas Pudding: A Royal Holiday Tradition

When it comes to Christmas desserts, few things embody holiday tradition like The Queen’s Christmas Pudding. This festive pudding has been a staple at British royal holiday tables for centuries, known for its rich flavors and luxurious texture. Preparing this dessert takes time, but the result is a celebratory masterpiece that’s worth the effort. Steamed to perfection, packed with dried fruits, spices, and a touch of brandy, this Christmas pudding is as delicious as it is iconic.

Why You’ll Love The Queen’s Christmas Pudding Recipe

This Christmas pudding recipe stands out not only because of its royal roots but also for its timeless appeal. It combines the warmth of holiday spices with the richness of dried fruits, creating a dense, moist pudding that’s bursting with flavor. The ritual of making and enjoying this pudding brings families together, and the end result is a dessert that’s not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. Plus, there’s something undeniably magical about steaming a pudding for hours and finally unveiling it in all its glory on Christmas Day.

Recipe Overview: The Queen’s Christmas Pudding

The Queen’s Christmas Pudding is a traditional British steamed dessert made with a blend of currants, sultanas, raisins, and suet, and flavored with brandy, mixed spice, and citrus zest. Traditionally prepared well in advance and allowed to mature, this pudding develops deep, complex flavors that are synonymous with Christmas. Serve it with brandy butter, cream, or custard for an extra touch of decadence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup currants
• 1 cup sultanas
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup suet (or unsalted butter for a vegetarian option)
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon mixed spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup milk

Ingredient Substitutions

If suet isn’t available, unsalted butter works well as a substitute, though it will alter the texture slightly. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the brandy with orange juice for a burst of citrus flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour can also be used to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions for The Queen’s Christmas Pudding

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the currants, sultanas, raisins, suet, brown sugar, breadcrumbs, flour, mixed spice, and citrus zest. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, brandy, and milk. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring to combine thoroughly. The mixture should be thick and moist.
3. Let the Flavors Marry: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the mixture sit for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to blend. Some traditional recipes recommend leaving it overnight.
4. Prepare for Steaming: Grease a pudding basin or heatproof bowl. Spoon the mixture into the basin, pressing it down gently to remove any air pockets.
5. Wrap and Seal: Cover the top of the basin with a layer of parchment paper, then wrap it with aluminum foil. Secure with kitchen string to keep the lid tight and prevent water from seeping in during steaming.
6. Steam the Pudding: Place the basin in a large pot with enough water to come halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer gently for 5-6 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water level stays consistent.
7. Cool and Store: Once steamed, remove the pudding and allow it to cool completely. For the best flavor, wrap the pudding in fresh parchment and foil, and store it in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks before serving.

Tips and Tricks

To keep the pudding moist, check the water level every hour during steaming and top it up as necessary with boiling water. For an even richer flavor, drizzle a bit of brandy over the pudding every few days during storage. Finally, if you don’t have a traditional pudding basin, a heatproof glass or metal bowl will work in a pinch.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
• Steaming Time: 5-6 hours
• Total Time: 6-7 hours

Serving Suggestions

This recipe yields one medium pudding, serving about 6-8 people. For a traditional British presentation, serve The Queen’s Christmas Pudding with brandy butter, custard, or heavy cream. To create an unforgettable holiday moment, carefully pour a spoonful of warmed brandy over the pudding, light it with a match, and bring it flaming to the table!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Sodium: 90mg

Storage and Reheating

To store, wrap the cooled pudding in fresh parchment paper and foil. It will keep in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months, allowing the flavors to deepen. To reheat, steam the pudding again for about 1-2 hours before serving, or microwave individual slices for a quick option. Avoid freezing, as this can alter the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a pudding basin?

While a pudding basin is traditional, any heatproof bowl can be used. Just be sure to cover it securely to prevent water from getting in during the steaming process.

What if I don’t have suet?

Suet adds an authentic texture, but unsalted butter works well as a substitute, especially for a vegetarian version. Chill the butter and grate it for the best results.

Can I make this pudding in advance?

Yes! This pudding actually tastes better when made in advance, as it allows the flavors to mature. Many make it up to a month before Christmas, storing it in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

The Queen’s Christmas Pudding is a dessert steeped in tradition, bringing warmth and festivity to any holiday gathering. While it requires time and patience, the end result is a wonderfully rich, dense, and flavorful pudding that will make Christmas unforgettable. Whether you’re following this recipe for the first time or carrying on a family tradition, The Queen’s Christmas Pudding is sure to be a holiday favorite. Share your experiences with us, and may this pudding add a touch of royal tradition to your celebrations!