Let's be honest: making a traditional Christmas pudding can feel like an overwhelming task. Between the long lists of ingredients, weeks of advance prep, and dense, boozy textures, it's no wonder so many people have given up on the idea entirely or instead buy second-rate supermarket versions.
But it doesn't have to be that way. This quick and easy Christmas pudding recipe has been passed down through my family for decades, and we still make it every year. It's much lighter than many traditional recipes, it's quick to put together, and it uses simple ingredients - no eggs, no alcohol, and no stress.
As an Australian jewellery designer who makes silver Christmas pudding coins, I often get asked for a pudding recipe that works well with our coins. This one is my go-to: it's easy, delicious, and never fails to impress. It's also the very same recipe I include with every set of coins, along with my Nana's wonderfully indulgent brandy sauce.
If you're ready to revive an old tradition or just want a deliciously simple Christmas dessert to share with your loved ones, read on.
About This Recipe
This simple Christmas pudding recipe has been in my family for generations. We believe it came about during the Great Depression, when ingredients like eggs and alcohol were expensive or hard to come by. Instead, it uses cold tea to give it a lovely flavour and richness - and the end result is anything but plain.
The pudding has a lighter texture and isn't as intensely rich as many traditional versions, which makes it more appealing to modern tastes - I definitely prefer it, particularly after a big Chrismtas lunch!
It's also very forgiving: there's no need to make it weeks ahead (in fact it's best made on the day), and it can even be adapted for a vegan Christmas pudding with one easy substitution.
It might not be the fanciest recipe, but it's been the highlight of our Christmas table for decades — and I hope it becomes a favourite for your family too.
Can You Make a Vegan Christmas Pudding?
Absolutely. This pudding is already egg-free, and the only non-vegan ingredient is a small amount of butter. Simply swap it out for a plant-based alternative (like a mild olive oil or vegan butter) and you've got a lovely vegan Christmas pudding. It's that easy.
Just note that my family's very indulgent brandy sauce isn't vegan. You'll want to make or buy a plant-based custard instead.
When Should You Make It?
Unlike traditional plum pudding recipes that need to age for weeks, this one is best made fresh on Christmas Day. We usually mix it in the morning or even the evening before and let it sit in the pudding basin, ready to steam while we eat lunch. It smells amazing and will be ready just in time for dessert.
If you prefer, you can make it a day or two ahead: just store it in the fridge and gently reheat when it's time to serve.
How to Serve Your Christmas Pudding
This pudding is wonderful on its own, but it really shines when topped with brandy custard or brandy butter. You can go the traditional route and bring it to the table with a sprig of holly, douse it with a little brandy, and set it alight for a bit of drama — just be sure to dim the lights!
Otherwise, slice it up in the kitchen and serve hot portions straight into bowls. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so leftovers won't go to waste (though we rarely have any!).
Add a Spark of Tradition to your Pudding
Our solid silver Christmas Pudding Coins are a modern take on a classic tradition. Each set features 6 large coins, beautifully etched with vintage-style Christmas illustrations. They're perfect for creating magical memories. Use them year after year, or gift a set to someone special.
Don't Forget the Christmas Coins
If you're reviving the old tradition of hiding silver coins in your pudding, this recipe is ideal. It's moist and soft enough to press coins into once it's cooked - much safer than steaming them inside.
Whoever finds a coin is said to have good luck in the coming year, which adds a bit of fun to the table. Just make sure to warn your guests (and skip coins in small children's servings).
Our sterling silver Christmas pudding coins are large, easy to find, and come with their own vintage-inspired designs. They make a beautiful keepsake and you can use them year after year.
Discover why we put coins into Christmas puddings, along with the history and other traditions relating to this much-loved festive dessert.
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Easy Christmas Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups plain (all purpose) flour
- 2 teaspoons bicarbonate soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
- 1½ cups dried mixed fruit
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (or vegan alternative), melted
- 2 teaspoons mixed spice
- 1 heaped cup sugar
- 2 cups cold tea (strained or from teabags)
Method:
- Mix all dry ingredients with the cold tea and melted butter in a large bowl.
- Stir well until combined. Invite each family member to take a turn stirring and make a wish.
- Pour the mixture into a greased lidded pudding basin or wrap in calico and foil. You can divide into two smaller puddings if preferred.
- Place the pudding in a saucepan half-filled with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and steam for 1½ hours.
- Check with a metal skewer - if it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Press in silver Christmas coins after cooking if desired.
To Serve:
Slice and serve hot in bowls or on small plates. Top with brandy custard or brandy butter for a delicious Christmas treat.
Important: If you've included Christmas Pudding Coins or other tokens, make sure they aren't served to young children and that you tell your guests to eat carefully and look out for them.
Makes 8-12 servings, depending on how you slice it. Leftovers (if there are any!) will keep in the fridge for around five days.
Explore More Thoughtful Australian Christmas Gifts
Whether you're reviving an old family tradition or starting a new one, we hope this easy Christmas pudding recipe adds some extra joy to your festive season.
If you're looking for more meaningful and beautifully made gifts, we have a unique collection of handmade jewellery and Australian Christmas gifts that are perfect for loved ones near and far. They're lightweight to send, easy to wear, and designed to be cherished.
As a small Australian business, we love helping our customers celebrate the season with personal and heartfelt gifts that stand out from the ordinary. Learn more about our unique Australian jewellery.
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