Delicious Vegan Christmas Pudding Recipe for the Festive Season

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog. Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s an art, a passion, and a way to bring people together. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a festive delight that will take center stage on your holiday table: a vegan Christmas pudding. This classic dessert is reimagined to suit plant-based diets while retaining all the rich flavors and aromas that make it a holiday favorite.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this vegan Christmas pudding is sure to inspire you with its simple, elegant, and delicious profile. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, promising to deliver a delightful experience that everyone can enjoy — vegan or not. Join me as we dive into the recipe that encapsulates the spirit of the season in every bite.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

This vegan Christmas pudding is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a healthier alternative to traditional versions. Free from animal products, it caters to diverse dietary needs and preferences without compromising on flavor. Moreover, it’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that make it a guilt-free indulgence.

Unique Features

One of the standout features of this recipe is its use of natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients. Additionally, it’s entirely free of refined sugar, making it a more health-conscious choice. The recipe also incorporates a variety of dried fruits and nuts, which provide texture and depth of flavor, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the last.

Ingredients for Vegan Christmas Pudding

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/2 cup grated apple
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

Optional Add-ins

• 1 tablespoon molasses for a deeper flavor
• 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips for a sweet twist

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by soaking your mixed dried fruits in orange juice for at least 30 minutes. This will ensure they are plump and flavorful.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a pudding basin or a deep ovenproof bowl with coconut oil.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated apple, soaked fruits, chopped nuts, and orange zest. Stir to mix well.

Cooking Process

4. In another bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, almond milk, and melted coconut oil until well combined.
5. Gradually add the self-raising flour, baking soda, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the wet ingredients. Mix until smooth.
6. Fold the dry mixture into the fruit mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated.
7. Transfer the batter into the prepared pudding basin. Cover with a double layer of parchment paper and foil, securing tightly with a string.
8. Place the basin in a large pot with enough water to reach halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover and steam for 3 hours, checking occasionally to top up water if necessary.
9. Once cooked, allow the pudding to cool slightly before turning it out onto a plate. Serve warm with vegan custard or ice cream.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

For a pudding that is moist and full of flavor, ensure your dried fruits are well soaked. Additionally, steaming is crucial for the texture, so make sure to maintain a consistent water level during the cooking process. If you prefer a richer flavor, prepare the pudding a few days in advance and let it mature in the fridge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overmixing the batter as it can lead to a dense pudding. Also, ensure that the basin is properly sealed during steaming to prevent any water from entering, which could make the pudding soggy.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

Each serving of this vegan Christmas pudding contains approximately 350 calories, with 12g of fat, 55g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. The use of almond milk and coconut oil offers healthy fats, while the dried fruits provide natural sugars and fiber.

Health Benefits

This pudding is more than just a festive treat. It offers several health benefits such as improved digestion from the fiber in dried fruits and nuts, and antioxidants from the spices used. Moreover, it’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the diverse range of ingredients.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

If you’re gluten-intolerant, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds.

Flavor Variations

For a hint of chocolate, add vegan chocolate chips into the batter. Alternatively, experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist. You can also replace some of the fruits with dried apricots or figs for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store the vegan Christmas pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the pudding in parchment paper and foil, and freeze for up to three months.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with a generous pour of vegan custard or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. For an added touch, garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Creating a vegan Christmas pudding that captures the essence of the holiday season is a joyful and rewarding endeavor. This recipe, with its blend of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, is sure to become a beloved tradition in your festive celebrations. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply looking to try something new, this pudding promises satisfaction in every bite. Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey. Stay connected with Recipes in Style for more delightful recipes that bring the joy of delicious, niche cuisine into your home. Bon Appétit!

Delicious Vegan Christmas Pudding Recipe for the Festive Season

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A festive, plant-based take on a holiday classic, this vegan Christmas pudding is rich, flavorful, and perfect for any seasonal celebration. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, it’s a guilt-free indulgence the whole family can enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/2 cup grated apple
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• Optional: 1 tablespoon molasses for a deeper flavor
• Optional: 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips for a sweet twist

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Instructions

1. Soak mixed dried fruits in orange juice for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a pudding basin with coconut oil.
3. In a large bowl, mix grated apple, soaked fruits, chopped nuts, and orange zest.
4. In another bowl, whisk dark brown sugar, almond milk, and melted coconut oil.
5. Add flour, baking soda, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the wet ingredients. Mix until smooth.
6. Fold wet and dry mixtures together until fully combined.
7. Transfer to the greased pudding basin, cover with parchment and foil, and secure with string.
8. Place basin in a large pot with water reaching halfway up the sides. Steam for 3 hours, topping up water as needed.
9. Cool slightly before turning out and serve warm with vegan custard or ice cream.

Notes

For a richer flavor, make the pudding a few days in advance and let it mature. Keep the basin tightly covered to avoid water seeping in during steaming.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Steamed
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: vegan christmas pudding, holiday dessert, plant-based pudding, steamed dessert