The Christmas pudding is a brown pudding with raisins, nuts and cherries. It is similar to fruitcake, except that pudding is steamed and fruitcake is baked. © copyright of projectbritain.com

Traditionally a silver coin (six pence) was hidden inside the Christmas Pudding. The silver coin brought good fortune to whomever was lucky enough to find it when the pudding was cut.

Decorated with holly

How to eat a Christmas Pudding

The Flaming Christmas Pudding

Brandy is often poured over the pudding, which is then set a light as it is carried to the table. © copyright of projectbritain.com

Brandy poured over

Flaming Christmas Pudding

The lights are turned off so people can see the flames.

Christmas Pudding is served with custard or brandy sauce.
(5 tbsp double cream, whipped with 2 tbsp brandy)

Eating Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce

History of the Christmas Pudding

Christmas Porridge - Frumenty

The Christmas pudding known today began life as Christmas porridge called Frumenty, a dish made of wheat or corn boiled up in milk. © copyright of projectbritain.com

Plum Pudding

As time went on, other ingredients, such as dried plums or prunes, eggs, and lumps of meat were added to make it more interesting. When cooked, it was poured into a dish. This pudding was called Plum Pudding. © copyright of projectbritain.com

The name 'Plum Pudding' continued to be used even when people used raisins, currants, and sultanas instead of prunes.

When is the traditional time for making the Christmas Pudding?

The traditional time for making a Christmas pudding is on 'Stir Up Sunday ' at the beginning of advent. A proper Christmas pudding is always stirred from East to West in honour of the three Wise Men and traditionally made with 13 ingredients to represent Christ and His Disciples. Every member of the family must give the pudding a stir and make a secret wish.

Christmas Pudding Recipe

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