A Simple Take on a British Favourite

Spelt Plum Duff brings warm, fruity comfort with a lighter grain base. Its flavour is rich but balanced, and the texture stays soft and moist. The spices lift the sweetness without overpowering it. The recipe uses simple steps, so anyone can make it with ease.

Why This Version Works So Well

Spelt flour keeps the pudding soft while adding a mild nutty taste. The mix of dried plums, spice, and gentle sweetness creates a steady, smooth flavour. Steaming helps the Duff stay tender and stable. The recipe suits casual meals, colder evenings, or any moment you want a warm homemade treat.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 105 mins

Total Time 2 hrs

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Estimated Cost: 7

Calories: 320

Best Season: Winter, Fall

Description

A soft, steamed British pudding made with spelt flour, dried plums, warm spice, and a gentle sweetness. It’s comforting, simple to prepare, and carries a classic flavour with a lighter, modern touch.

Ingredients

For the Duff:

200 g Spelt flour, wholegrain or light
1 tsp Baking powder
½ tsp Ground cinnamon
¼ tsp Ground nutmeg
80 g Caster sugar
100 g Dried plums, chopped
75 g Unsalted butter, softened
150 ml Whole milk
1 Large egg
1 pinch Salt

For the Basin:

1 tsp Butter, for greasing
1 tbsp Plain flour, for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the basin.

1
Grease a pudding basin with butter, then dust lightly with flour.

Mix the dry ingredients.

2
Add spelt flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and salt to a bowl. Stir to combine.

Add the wet ingredients.

3
Add butter, milk, and the egg. Mix until the batter is smooth and steady.

Fold in the plums.

4
Add chopped dried plums and fold them evenly through the mixture.

Fill the basin.

5
Spoon the batter into the prepared basin. Level the top.

Cover the basin.

6
Place baking paper on top, then foil. Seal the edges tightly.

Steam the Duff.

7
Set the basin in a large pot with 3–4 cm of simmering water. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 1 hour 45 minutes. Keep water topped up.

Check and serve.

8
Remove the foil and paper. Insert a skewer; it should come out clean. Rest for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a plate and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Cholesterol 55mg19%
Sodium 110mg5%
Potassium 210mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 20g
Protein 6g12%

* 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

You can steam this pudding in a slow cooker if you prefer. Simply add boiling water halfway up the basin and cook on high for 3–3.5 hours.

Optional Substitutions and Variations

Swap dried plums for raisins, sultanas, or mixed dried fruit.
Add orange zest for a brighter flavour.
Use plant milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

Keywords: spelt pudding, plum duff, steamed dessert, British pudding, simple dessert

Tips & Variations

Make It Your Style

You can add chopped nuts for a light crunch or stir in a spoon of dark jam for extra depth. A little ginger also adds warmth without being sharp.

Serving Ideas

Serve the Plum Duff with warm custard, thick cream, or plain yoghurt for a simpler finish. It also pairs well with a spoon of stewed fruit.

Conclusion

Give this Spelt Plum Duff a try and enjoy a fresh take on a classic pudding. It is steady, warm, and easy to prepare. Share it with family or enjoy it as a quiet treat. Let this simple recipe bring a bit of comfort to your table.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-plum-duff/

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!