As the holiday season approaches and twinkling lights start to adorn every corner, there’s nothing quite like the rich, comforting scent of a traditional Christmas dessert wafting through the kitchen. I discovered this Vegan Christmas Pudding recipe on a quest to make festive treats that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences. Imagine sinking your fork into a moist, dense pudding fully loaded with the sweetness of dried figs, sultanas, and raisins, all thoughtfully infused with a hint of rum. This delight not only satisfies those festive cravings but also brings a sprinkle of warmth to every gathering.
Perfectly paired with a scoop of vegan ice cream, this pudding promises to be the star of any holiday table, impressing both plant-based eaters and traditionalists alike. Believe me when I say, the joy of sharing this rich and indulgent time-honored dessert will make it a cherished holiday tradition in your home. So, let’s dive into creating a festive experience that is as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Why Will You Love This Vegan Christmas Pudding?
Indulgent, Festive Flavors: The Vegan Christmas Pudding is bursting with sweet, fruity goodness, making it a standout dessert for holiday celebrations.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, you can whip this delightful pudding up in no time, even if you’re new to baking!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for everyone, it caters to both vegan diets and traditional tastes, ensuring all your guests will be satisfied.
A Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare it in advance, and store it for a year—its flavors deepen over time, adding to the festive excitement.
Warm, Cozy Experience: Serve it warm and watch the smiles as it brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table!
Vegan Christmas Pudding Ingredients
• To create this delightful Vegan Christmas Pudding, here’s what you need.
For the Batter
- Dairy-Free Margarine – Greasing and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil or other plant-based fats.
- Dried Figs (375g) – Natural sweetness and texture; use prunes or dates for a different flavor.
- Rum (75ml) – Adds depth of flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version or replace with apple juice.
- Mixed Sultanas and Raisins (350g) – Provide sweetness and chewiness; adjust the ratios based on your preference.
- Large Eating Apple (1, peeled, cored, and grated) – Adds moisture and a slight tartness; can substitute with pears.
- Light Brown Soft Sugar (85g) – Delivers sweetness and richness; use coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Dark Brown Soft Sugar (85g) – Enhances richness and depth; can replace with more light brown sugar if needed.
- Breadcrumbs (100g) – Adds structure; opt for vegan breadcrumbs or crushed nuts if preferred.
- Self-Raising Flour (100g) – Provides structure and lightness; can substitute with a gluten-free mix if necessary.
- Allspice (½ tbsp) – Aromatic spice for warmth; substitute with mixed spice or cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
It’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This Vegan Christmas Pudding is bound to impress with its sweet and festive charm.
How to Make Vegan Christmas Pudding
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Grease a 2-litre pudding bowl thoroughly and line the base with baking parchment. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier later on. Cover the top of the bowl with a pleated foil sheet to allow steam to escape.
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Chop 125g of dried figs roughly and set them aside. In a blender, combine the remaining figs with dairy-free margarine and rum until smooth; pour this mixture into a large mixing bowl.
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Combine the chopped figs, sultanas, raisins, grated apple, both sugars, breadcrumbs, flour, and allspice. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well mixed for a consistent batter.
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Fill your prepared pudding basin with the mixture, packing it down slightly. Cover it with the buttered parchment-foil sheet and secure it tightly with string to trap in moisture.
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Setup a large saucepan with a bed of scrunched-up bits of foil or saucers to keep the pudding basin elevated and prevent direct contact. Fill the pan with boiling water halfway up the pudding bowl.
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Simmer covered for 3 hours over gentle heat. Check the water level occasionally, adding more boiling water as needed. After cooking, allow to cool before storing in a cupboard for up to a year.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vegan Christmas Pudding?
Bring a cozy, festive touch to your holiday table with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience.
- Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream pairs beautifully, offering a delicious contrast to the warm, spiced pudding.
- Coconut Cream Drizzle: A light drizzle of coconut cream adds richness and a tropical hint that enhances the pudding’s flavors.
- Spiced Apple Compote: Serve warm compote made from spiced apples for a lovely fruity complement that brightens every bite.
- Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweet candied nuts bring a delightful texture, balancing the pudding’s softness with their delightful crunch.
- Mulled Wine: Share a glass of warming mulled wine to perfectly match the spices in the pudding, creating a festive mood.
- Fresh Berries: A handful of juicy raspberries or blueberries not only adds color but also a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully.
- Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce introduces a luxurious touch, blending seamlessly with the pudding’s sweetness.
- Chai Tea: Enjoy a cup of fragrant chai tea alongside, as its spices complement the flavors of the Christmas pudding harmoniously.
- Vegan Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy and buttery vegan shortbread serves as a delightful side, enhancing your dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: For a decadent touch, a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce entices with another layer of flavor and sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Christmas Pudding
- Room Temperature: Store in a cool, dry cupboard for up to a year. Make sure it’s well-wrapped in parchment or placed in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Fridge: If preferred, keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, tightly covered. This is great if you plan to consume it soon but always taste the rich flavors first!
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pudding for up to 6 months. Cut into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and then in foil before placing in an airtight freezer bag.
- Reheating: To serve, re-steam the pudding for about 30 minutes or microwave until warm. Enjoy your Vegan Christmas Pudding bursting with festive flavors!
Expert Tips for Vegan Christmas Pudding
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Seal Well: Ensure your pudding basin is tightly covered to keep the moisture in, preventing a dry final product.
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Check Your Pot: Use a large pot to allow proper simmering; overheating can lead to a soggy texture in the vegan Christmas pudding.
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Flavor Boost: Don’t be afraid to let it age—this pudding tastes better the longer it’s stored, enhancing those festive flavors.
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Variations Allowed: Feel free to swap in different dried fruits or nuts to make this recipe your own without compromising the deliciousness.
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Re-Steaming Reminder: If making ahead, remember to re-steam your pudding before serving to bring back its lovely warmth and moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Christmas Puddings are an absolute gem for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions through step 4, then cover your pudding bowl tightly with the foil and refrigerate. Just before serving, re-steam the pudding by placing it in a saucepan as you would normally and simmer for about 2 hours, ensuring it’s heated through. This method keeps the pudding moist and flavorful, so it tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. By prepping ahead, you free up valuable time during the busy holiday season while delighting your guests with a classic treat that deepens in flavor with age!
Vegan Christmas Pudding Variations
Feel free to add a personal touch while making this delicious vegan treat—just let your creativity shine!
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Nuts Boost: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor in every bite. A subtle twist enhances the pudding’s texture and makes it even more satisfying.
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Spice It Up: Include an extra pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract for a warm and cozy vibe. These spices elevate the festive aroma and deepen the experience of every mouthful.
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Fruit Medley: Swap in dried apricots or cranberries for a bright and tangy kick. This fruity combination can awaken your taste buds and brighten the overall flavor profile.
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Heat It Up: Add a dash of ground ginger or chili powder for a surprising warmth. Just a hint can create a warm sensation that dances on your palate, perfect for chilly holiday evenings.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of self-raising flour for a stress-free, gluten-free dessert option. Everyone can enjoy this delicious pudding without compromising on taste!
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No Rum Version: Omit the rum and use a splash of orange juice for a fruity twist without the alcohol. This makes it family-friendly while keeping the essence of a festive treat intact.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in vegan chocolate chips for a cheeky chocolatey upgrade. They will melt just enough into the batter to create pockets of rich sweetness within your pudding.
Embrace the joy of cooking by customizing your Vegan Christmas Pudding to suit your taste and dietary needs!
Vegan Christmas Pudding Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting dried figs?
Absolutely! Look for dried figs that are plump and soft to the touch without dark spots all over. If they feel too hard or are overly shady in hue, try to avoid those. Choosing figs with a bright color typically indicates freshness and sweetness, ensuring your vegan Christmas pudding tastes delightful!
How should I store my Vegan Christmas Pudding?
You can store your pudding in a cool, dry cupboard for up to a year! Make sure it is well-wrapped in parchment paper and kept in an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor. Alternatively, if you’re aiming to eat it within a few days, a tightly covered container in the fridge will keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the Vegan Christmas Pudding, and if so, how?
Very! Freezing is an excellent option for preserving your pudding. To do this, cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, wrap it again in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Finally, place your wrapped pudding into an airtight freezer bag. This way, it can stay fresh for up to 6 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just re-steam for about 30 minutes, and it’ll be as good as new!
What if my pudding turns out too soggy?
No worries! If you find that your vegan Christmas pudding has turned out too soggy, it might be due to cooking in too high heat or not properly sealing the basin. To fix this, simply re-steam the pudding again for a shorter time—about 20 minutes at a low simmer can help regain some of the texture without overcooking. Always ensure there’s enough water in your steaming pot to avoid heating without actual steam.
Can I make any substitutions for allergies or dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you or anyone else has specific dietary restrictions, you can make this vegan Christmas pudding adaptable! For instance, use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, if there are nut allergies, keep your dried fruits and breadcrumbs free from nuts. And don’t forget, opting for apple juice instead of rum works perfectly for a non-alcoholic version, while still delivering a wonderful flavor!
What is the best way to reheat the Vegan Christmas Pudding?
To reheat your pudding, the best method is to re-steam it! Just place the pudding basin back in a pot with boiling water and cover, allowing it to steam for about 30 minutes. This method will retain its moisture and improve the flavors. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it, but be sure to check it every 30 seconds to prevent overheating. Enjoy your festive treat with plant-based ice cream for an extra dash of indulgence!
Delicious Vegan Christmas Pudding Your Guests Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 2-litre pudding bowl thoroughly and line the base with baking parchment. Cover the top with a pleated foil sheet to allow steam to escape.
- Chop 125g of dried figs roughly and set them aside. In a blender, combine the remaining figs with dairy-free margarine and rum until smooth; pour this mixture into a large mixing bowl.
- Combine the chopped figs, sultanas, raisins, grated apple, both sugars, breadcrumbs, flour, and allspice. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed for a consistent batter.
- Fill your prepared pudding basin with the mixture, packing it down slightly. Cover it with the buttered parchment-foil sheet and secure tightly with string.
- Setup a large saucepan with a bed of scrunched-up bits of foil or saucers to keep the pudding basin elevated. Fill the pan with boiling water halfway up the pudding bowl.
- Simmer covered for 3 hours over gentle heat. Check the water level occasionally, adding more boiling water as needed. Allow to cool before storing for up to a year.
- Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream.