Description: A cherished holiday tradition, Irish Plum Pudding is a rich, spiced dessert packed with dried fruits, nuts, warm spices, and a splash of Irish whiskey or Guinness stout. Slow-steamed for hours to develop its deep, complex flavors, this indulgent pudding is a festive centerpiece that’s often set ablaze with whiskey or brandy for a dramatic, celebratory touch. Serve it with custard, cream, or brandy sauce for a truly unforgettable Christmas treat.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 hours (steaming)
Serving size: 8-10 Servings
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded suet (or vegetarian suet)
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates)
- ½ cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons mixed spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup Guinness stout or Irish whiskey
- Brandy or Irish whiskey for flaming (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the suet, dark brown sugar, flour, breadcrumbs, dried fruits, nuts, citrus zest, mixed spice, ginger, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add the beaten eggs, stirring well after each addition.
- Pour in the Guinness stout or Irish whiskey and mix until a thick, moist batter forms.
2. Steam the Pudding
- Grease a 2-quart pudding basin or heatproof bowl. Pour in the pudding mixture, filling it almost to the top. Smooth the surface.
- Cover the basin with a double layer of parchment paper and foil, securing it tightly with kitchen twine.
- Place a trivet or upturned saucer in a large pot and set the pudding basin on top. Pour in boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the basin.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam on low heat for 8 hours, checking occasionally to top up with boiling water as needed.
3. Store and Reheat
- Once steamed, carefully remove the pudding and let it cool completely.
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to several weeks, allowing the flavors to develop further.
- To reheat before serving, steam the pudding for an additional 2 hours.
4. Serve & Flame (Optional)
- Unmold the pudding onto a serving dish.
- For a festive presentation, gently warm brandy or Irish whiskey, pour it over the pudding, and carefully ignite for a spectacular flaming effect.
- Serve with custard, whipped cream, or a rich brandy sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
A Festive Irish Tradition – Deeply flavorful and beautifully spiced, Irish Plum Pudding is more than just dessert—it’s a time-honored Christmas tradition. Whether served simply or flambéed for a showstopping finale, this pudding is sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table.
