Figgy Christmas Pudding
Our Figgy Christmas Pudding recipe is a classic that every Christmas table should have and a must-try delicacy. This juicy and delicious dessert is full of rich fig flavors and will be the highlight of your festive selection. The best part is you can easily make it in advance and simply steam the puddings to reheat on the big day. The scent of spices and the sweetness of dried fruits will fill your home and create a truly magical Christmas atmosphere. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a piece of traditional Christmas joy with our delicious Figgy Christmas Pudding.
Ingredients
- 250g pack of butter, softened, plus some butter for the bowls and paper
- 750g dried figs
- 150 ml brandy
- 700g mixed sultanas and raisins (we used Waitrose Wholesome mixed vines)
- 3 eating apples, peeled, cored and grated
- 175g light muscovado sugar
- 175g dark brown soft sugar
- 200g breadcrumbs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 tbsp allspice
Tip
On the big day…
To reheat, steam the puddings as directed above – they will only take half the time they took to cook and reheat.
Preparation steps
- Butter a 500ml, a 1 liter and a 2 liter pudding bowl
- Line the bottom of each bowl with a circle of baking paper
- Butter 3 large sheets of baking paper
- Place each sheet butter side up on a large sheet of foil
- Make a fold in the middle of each sheet
- Roughly chop 250 g figs and set aside
- Place remaining figs, butter, and brandy in a food processor
- Stir the mixture until smooth
- Scrape the mixture into the largest mixing bowl
- Add chopped figs, mixed grapes, grated apple, sugar, breadcrumbs, flour and allspice to the bowl
- Stir everything together, have as many helpers as you like stir and add as many wishes as you like
- Divide the mixture between the pudding bowls
- Smooth the surface of the puddings
- Cover the pudding with the buttered paper foil sheets
- Tie each pudding with a string and cut it
- Place the pudding in separate pots
- Place upside-down saucers or crumpled pieces of foil in the bottom of each pot to keep the pudding from touching the bottom
- Fill each pan with enough boiling water from the kettle to come halfway up the sides of the bowl
- Cover the pans with a lid
- Simmer the small pudding for 1-1½ hours, the medium pudding for 2-2½ hours and the large pudding for 3 hours
- Add water as needed during cooking
- Remove the pudding from the pans and allow to cool
- If you’re giving it as a gift, place a new piece of parchment on top
- The prepared pudding will keep for up to a year in a cool, dry cupboard
Nutritional Information
Equipment and tools
To prepare Figgy Christmas Pudding you will need the following equipment and tools:
- mixing bowls
- Pudding basin
- parchment paper
- Steamer or large pot with lid
- Mixing spoon or electric mixer
- grater
- Knife
- tablespoon
Allergen information
The Figgy Christmas Pudding contains the following allergens:
- butter
- brandy
- Sultanas and raisins
- Apples
- Flour
Please note that this recipe may also contain other allergens not listed. It’s always important to check ingredient labels for potential allergens and take necessary precautions if you or someone you’re cooking for has food allergies.
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers or want to make Figgy Christmas Pudding in advance, here are some storage guidelines:
- Allow pudding to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Store the pudding in a cool, dry place.
- The pudding can be kept for up to 3 months.
To reheat the pudding, you can steam it again on the big day. Reheating takes half as long as initial cooking.
Health Benefits of Figgy Christmas Pudding
As well as being a delicious festive treat, Figgy Christmas Pudding is full of health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and their nutritional benefits:
Dried figs
Dried figs are a rich source of fiber, which aids digestion and prevents constipation. They are also rich in essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium, which contribute to bone health and muscle function.
brandy
While this recipe uses brandy for flavoring, it’s worth noting that moderate consumption of brandy may provide certain health benefits. Some studies suggest that small amounts of brandy may aid digestion, improve cardiovascular health, and even have antioxidant properties.
Sultanas and raisins
Sultanas and raisins are excellent sources of natural sugars, fiber and antioxidants. They provide a quick boost of energy and help maintain a healthy digestive system. In addition, they contain vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium and magnesium, which are essential for general well-being.
Apples
Apples are high in fiber and contain antioxidants that support a healthy immune system. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which supports collagen production and protects the body from oxidative stress. Apples also contribute to heart health due to their high content of flavonoids and fiber.
Muscovado and dark brown sugar
Muscovado and dark brown sugar used in this recipe are less refined versions of white sugar. They retain some of the natural molasses, providing more minerals such as calcium, potassium and iron, albeit in small amounts. Compared to white sugar, these varieties offer a slightly higher nutritional value.
Breadcrumbs and self-raising flour
Using breadcrumbs and self-rising flour gives the pudding consistency. While these ingredients do not contribute significant health benefits, they do provide some carbohydrates that are essential for energy production.
pimento
Allspice, a spice made from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant, adds flavor to Christmas pudding. Although it does not provide any direct health benefits, it may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to its natural chemical compounds.
As you can see, fig Christmas pudding is not only a delicious dessert, but it also contains ingredients that can promote digestive health, increase energy levels, and provide certain essential nutrients. Enjoy this festive treat knowing that it can positively contribute to your overall well-being!
