Disclaimer: Our editors have used AI to create or enhance parts of this article and some images. All content has been fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy.
Growing up, figgy pudding was just something I sang about in Christmas carols without really knowing what it was. My family never made it, and I always assumed it needed brandy or rum like the traditional versions. It wasn’t until last year, when my sister-in-law brought one to our holiday dinner, that I learned you could make it alcohol-free. The warm spices and sweet figs filled the house with the most wonderful smell, and I couldn’t believe how good it tasted without any spirits. Now, this alcohol-free version has become a regular at our family gatherings, proving that some of the best holiday traditions can come with a modern twist.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
For the dried fruits, a variety of options can be used based on preference or availability. Raisins, currants, chopped dates, or dried cranberries work well. This allows for customization of flavor and accommodates different dietary needs. The suet can be replaced with cold, grated butter or coconut oil for a vegetarian version. Use the same amount and incorporate it into the dry ingredients as you would with suet. The breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground nuts (such as almonds) for a gluten-free alternative. If using nuts, reduce the amount slightly as they are denser than breadcrumbs. These substitutions maintain the pudding’s texture and moisture while offering flexibility for different dietary requirements.
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 180-240 minutes |
| Total Time | 200-270 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 600-700
- Protein: 10-15 g
- Fat: 25-30 g
- Carbohydrates: 90-100 g
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup apple and blackcurrant concentrate (60 ml)
- 150 g assorted dried fruits
- 2 teaspoons orange juice (10 ml)
- Juice and zest from 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 grated eating apple
- 1 medium free-range egg
- 35 g plain flour (all-purpose)
- 1/4 cup superfine white sugar (35 g)
- 35 g shredded suet (use vegetarian if necessary)
- 35 g fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice blend
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Step 1: Prepare and Microwaving Initial Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mixed fruit and squash.
Mix them together well.
Then, pop the mixture into the microwave and heat for 90 seconds.
Once done, give it a good stir to distribute the heat evenly.
Step 2: Incorporate Citrus and Apple
After microwaving, add the orange juice and both the zest and juice of one lemon to the bowl.
Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
Stir in the grated apple and one egg, ensuring everything is well-combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, add the flour, sugar, suet, breadcrumbs, mixed spice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and baking powder.
Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture to form a wet, loose batter.
Make sure not to overmix.
Step 4: Chill the Batter
Cover the bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour.
For best results, allow it to chill overnight.
This chilling time allows the mixture to firm up slightly.
Step 5: Pour and Steam the Batter
Once chilled, transfer the mixture into greased 1-pint pudding basins and fit the lids.
Place the pudding basins in a saucepan and add boiling water until it reaches one third of the way up the sides of the basin.
Cover the saucepan with a lid and simmer gently for 3 hours.
Check the water level occasionally and top it up to ensure it doesn’t boil dry.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Carefully remove the pudding from the saucepan and allow it to cool with the lids off.
When completely cool, place the lid back on the basin and store in the refrigerator.
Note that this pudding cannot be stored long-term due to the absence of alcohol.
Step 7: Reheat and Serve on Christmas Day
On Christmas Day, steam the puddings in the same manner for an hour.
Serve the pudding on its own, or enhance the experience with pouring cream, ice cream, or custard.
Enjoy this delightful treat!
