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Spelt Spotted Dick with Custard

A warm slice of spelt spotted dick with visible raisins, soft crumb, and a lightly golden exterior.

A Comforting Take on a British Classic

Spelt spotted dick keeps the same warm, homely feel as the original, but with a gentle nutty depth from the spelt flour. The texture stays soft and tender, while the dried fruit adds small bursts of sweetness. The suet keeps everything light, so the pudding never feels heavy. The flavour works well in cool weather or after a Sunday roast. You get a nostalgic dessert that feels slightly upgraded but still familiar. It is simple to make and easier than it appears.

Why This Version Stands Out

Spelt flour adds structure without making the pudding dense. It blends smoothly with suet, sugar, and fruit, creating a balanced dough that steams evenly. The custard pairs perfectly with the pudding, adding warmth and a silky finish. The method relies on straightforward steps, clear timings, and no complicated equipment. You get reliable results each time. This recipe suits anyone who enjoys classic desserts with a wholesome edge.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr 45 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 5
Estimated Cost: 4.20
Calories: 420
Best Season: Winter, Fall
Dietary: Vegetarian when using vegetarian suet
Description

This spelt spotted dick delivers a soft, comforting steamed pudding with a nutty flavour and sweet bursts of fruit. Paired with smooth warm custard, it creates a classic British dessert that feels wholesome, satisfying, and simple to prepare.

Ingredients
    For the Spelt Spotted Dick
  • 200 g wholemeal spelt flour
  • 100 g shredded suet, vegetarian or beef
  • 80 g raisins or currants
  • 60 g caster sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 120 ml milk (adjust if needed)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 zest of lemon (optional)
    • For the Custard
  • 500 ml whole milk or oat milk
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp caster sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornflour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
    Prepare the Pudding.
  1. 1
    Combine the spelt flour, suet, caster sugar, baking powder, salt, and raisins in a bowl.
  2. 2
    Add the milk and vanilla. Stir until a soft dough forms. Add a splash of milk if dry.
  3. 3
    Shape the dough into a log. Wrap in baking parchment, then foil, leaving small space for expansion.
  4. 4
    Place the wrapped pudding in a steamer above simmering water.
  5. 5
    Steam for 1 hour and 30 minutes, checking water levels halfway.
    6. Make the Custard.
  6. 6
    Warm the milk in a saucepan until steaming.
  7. 7
    Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour in a bowl.
  8. 8
    Pour a little warm milk into the bowl to temper the mixture.
  9. 9
    Return everything to the saucepan.
  10. 10
    Stir on low heat until thick and smooth.
  11. 11
    Add vanilla and stir again.
    12. Serve.
  12. 12
    Unwrap the pudding carefully.
  13. 13
    Slice while warm.
  14. 14
    Pour custard over the top and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5

Amount Per Serving
Calories 420kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 7g35%
Cholesterol 95mg32%
Sodium 230mg10%
Potassium 260mg8%
Total Carbohydrate 65g22%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 30g
Protein 10g20%

* 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 prepare the pudding in advance and reheat slices in the microwave with an extra splash of custard. The dough should feel soft but never sticky before steaming.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

  • Swap raisins for currants, sultanas, or a mix.
  • Use orange zest instead of lemon for a sweeter aroma.
  • Replace whole milk with oat milk for a richer plant-based custard.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavour twist.

Storage Instructions

Keep leftover pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with custard poured over the top. The texture stays soft after steaming.

Keywords: spotted dick, spelt pudding, British dessert, steamed pudding, custard pudding

Tips & Variations

Enhance the Flavour

Citrus zest lifts the richness of the pudding, and a small spoon of golden syrup drizzled on top adds shine and sweetness. You can also fold in chopped dried apricots for a brighter, more fruity finish.

Adjust the Texture

If you want a firmer pudding, add a little less milk. For a softer finish, add a splash more milk when mixing the dough. Steaming time remains the same.

Conclusion

This spelt spotted dick with custard brings a warm, nostalgic feel while adding a wholesome grain twist. The method stays simple, and the result feels comforting and familiar. Try it for a weekend dessert or save it for cold evenings. Share your version and enjoy the soft, fruity slices with plenty of custard.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-spotted-dick-with-custard/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
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!