Spelt Christmas Pudding with Rich Fruit & Spice

A Festive Classic with a Spelt Upgrade

Christmas pudding remains a firm favourite on British tables. This version uses spelt flour for a lighter texture and gentle nutty taste. The pudding stays rich, dark, and full of fruit. It suits both modern and traditional kitchens. The first bite feels familiar but fresher.

Simple, Traditional, and Make-Ahead Friendly

This pudding uses basic steps and common ingredients. You can prepare it weeks in advance with no stress. Steaming keeps the pudding moist and deep in flavour. The recipe works well for beginners. The result tastes better after resting.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 180 mins

Total Time 3 hrs 20 mins

Cuisine: British

Courses: Dessert

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 8

Estimated Cost: 6.50

Calories: 420

Best Season: Winter

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

A traditional steamed Christmas pudding made with spelt flour, dried fruit, warming spices, and citrus zest. The texture stays moist and rich while the flavour develops over time. Ideal for festive meals and make-ahead planning.

Ingredients

100 g Spelt flour (wholemeal preferred)
150 g Dried mixed fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
50 g Glacé cherries (chopped)
50 g Mixed peel (finely chopped)
75 g Dark brown sugar (muscovado)
75 g Suet (vegetarian or beef)
1 tsp Ground cinnamon
½ tsp Ground nutmeg
½ tsp Ground mixed spice
1 Orange zest (unwaxed)
1 Lemon zest (unwaxed)
2 large Eggs
3 tbsp Black treacle
3 tbsp Brandy (plus extra for flaming)
100 ml Milk

Instructions

1
Grease a 1.2-litre pudding basin and line the base with baking paper.
2
Mix flour, dried fruit, cherries, peel, sugar, suet, and spices in a large bowl.
3
Add orange zest and lemon zest, then stir well.
4
Beat eggs with treacle, brandy, and milk in a separate jug.
5
Pour wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir until combined.
6
Spoon mixture into the basin and smooth the top.
7
Cover with baking paper and foil, then secure with string.
8
Place basin in a large pan with simmering water halfway up the sides.
9
Steam for 3 hours, topping up water when needed.
10
Cool fully, then store in a cool dark place until serving.
11
Note: Reheat by steaming for 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 420kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16g25%
Saturated Fat 7g35%
Cholesterol 55mg19%
Sodium 120mg5%
Potassium 380mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
Dietary Fiber 6g24%
Sugars 38g
Protein 7g15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

Flavour improves after resting for at least two weeks.
Store wrapped tightly in a cool cupboard.

Optional Substitutions & Storage

Replace brandy with orange juice for alcohol-free.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Serve with brandy butter, custard, or cream.

Keywords: spelt christmas pudding, festive dessert, traditional pudding, steamed pudding

Tips & Variations

Make It Your Own

Swap mixed fruit for dried figs or dates for a deeper flavour. Add chopped almonds for texture. Use apple juice instead of milk for a lighter pudding.

Serving Ideas

Warm slices reheat well in the microwave. A drizzle of extra brandy before flaming boosts aroma. Dust with icing sugar for a clean finish.

Conclusion

This spelt Christmas pudding keeps tradition simple and comforting. The method stays easy, and the flavour feels rich and festive. Prepare it early and enjoy less stress on Christmas Day. Try it once, and it may become your new yearly favourite.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-christmas-pudding-with-rich-fruit-spice/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!