Christmas Fig Pudding
A rich, moist Christmas fig pudding packed with dried figs, nuts, and warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings and loved by those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Let the mixture sit for one hour.
- Steam the pudding for four hours.
- Serve with sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Christmas Fig Pudding, consider substituting the suet with a plant-based option like coconut oil for a vegetarian version. You can also add a splash of brandy or rum to the mixture for extra depth. Ensure the figs are finely chopped to integrate well with the other ingredients, and don't skip the resting time; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Christmas Fig Pudding warm, drizzled with a rich sauce, such as a brandy butter or a warm vanilla custard. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Crunchy Vegetables for a festive balance. For a delightful dessert spread, consider including slices of Smearcase Cheese Cake and a selection of seasonal fruits.
Storage & Reheating
After the pudding has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, steam the pudding again for about 30 minutes or microwave individual portions until warm, ensuring they stay moist. This makes it easy to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Fig Pudding contains roughly 1080 calories, with 20g protein, 192g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (103% of the Daily Value), calcium (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1241mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding in advance. In fact, it benefits from a few days of resting, allowing the flavors to develop. After steaming, allow it to cool completely, wrap it well, and store in the refrigerator. Just remember to re-steam it before serving.
What can I use instead of suet?
If you prefer not to use suet, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. This will give you a rich texture while keeping the pudding moist. If you're looking for vegetarian recipes, this substitution is ideal.
How do I know when the pudding is done?
The pudding is done when it's firm to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Steaming for four hours should be sufficient, but if you notice it still feels soft, give it an additional 30 minutes to ensure perfect texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).