Tea Blog

Another British Christmas essential is the Christmas pudding. Whether figgy or fruity, it’s a traditional favorite enjoyed by many in Britain during the holiday season.

Whether bought from shops or made at home, Christmas pudding remains a staple on the holiday table.

Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, though it gained widespread popularity in the 1800s during Queen Victoria’s reign—partly because her husband was especially fond of it. This British pudding is quite different from the smooth chocolate or vanilla pudding commonly known in the United States.

Instead, Christmas pudding is more similar to a dense cake. It is typically boiled or steamed and made with ingredients like flour, sugar, raisins, sultanas, spices, and brandy.

Once prepared, the pudding often becomes part of a festive presentation. It may be decorated with a sprig of holly or doused in brandy and briefly set alight—a tradition said to ward off evil spirits.

There’s also a fun tradition tied to serving the pudding: a coin is sometimes hidden inside, bringing good luck to whoever finds it in their slice. The pudding is usually served with custard or a rich brandy sauce.

I tried Christmas pudding myself for the first time this year. I followed the package directions—while it can be steamed, I wasn’t quite sure how to do that, so I used the microwave instead.

It definitely takes some getting used to. The flavor is very rich, fruity, and quite strong. A word of warning: do not reheat it in the microwave—it becomes very dry!

My sister and I tried it together, but it wasn’t quite to her taste. I ended up finishing it later myself.

I must say, I actually enjoyed it—but it’s definitely an acquired taste, especially due to the fruit and alcohol.

Christmas pudding has evolved over time. Today, you can find variations that are nut-free, alcohol-free, or even gluten-free.

I’d love to try making one myself someday, although it does seem a bit challenging. If I ever make it across the pond, I’ll definitely be bringing a pudding basin home with me!

~CD