Growing up, figgy pudding was just something I heard about in Christmas carols. You know, the one where they sing “Now bring us some figgy pudding” over and over? I had no idea what it was, but it sure sounded fancy. It wasn’t until I got my Instant Pot that I decided to finally give this mysterious dessert a try.
Turns out, figgy pudding isn’t as complicated as its Victorian-era reputation might suggest. While traditional recipes call for hours of steaming on the stovetop, the Instant Pot makes quick work of this holiday treat. And honestly? The results are just as good as the old-school method – minus all the fuss of checking water levels and waiting around all afternoon.
Ingredient Substitutions
Dried figs can be replaced with dried apricots or prunes for a similar chewy texture and sweetness. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe, chopping them to match the size of the figs. For dates, raisins or dried cranberries can serve as alternatives, offering a comparable natural sweetness and moisture. Self-raising flour can be substituted with all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and salt. For every cup of self-raising flour, use 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This allows for more control over leavening and accommodates those who may not keep self-raising flour on hand. When using this substitution, ensure all dry ingredients are well mixed before incorporating into the batter.
| Preparation Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50-60 minutes |
| Total Time | 65-85 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 3500-4000
- Protein: 30-40 g
- Fat: 180-200 g
- Carbohydrates: 500-550 g
Ingredients
- 8 ounces chopped pitted dates
- 8 ounces chopped dried figs
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups self-raising flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon bourbon or rum, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step 1: Prepare the Fig and Date Puree
Place the dates, dried figs, and 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over moderate heat.
Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda.
Let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes.
After cooling, transfer it to a blender and puree until smooth, creating a rich fruit mixture.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs until well combined.
Gently fold in the flour followed by the pureed fig mixture.
Stir in the chocolate chips, evenly distributing them throughout the batter.
Step 3: Set Up the Instant Pot for Cooking
Lightly grease a 6-quart glass heat-proof bowl with butter or baking spray and pour in the batter.
Insert a metal trivet into the Instant Pot and pour in the remaining 1 ½ cups of water.
Place the bowl with the batter onto the trivet, ensuring it is secure.
Lock the lid in place and set the valve to seal.
Pressure cook on high for 40 minutes, allowing a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Cool the Pudding and Make the Sauce
Once pressure is fully released, carefully open the lid and transfer the pudding bowl to a wire rack to cool.
Remove the metal trivet and discard any remaining water in the Instant Pot.
Wipe the inner bowl dry and set it to sauté.
Add the brown sugar, cream, and butter to the Instant Pot.
Cook while stirring often until the sauce thickens, which should take about 8 minutes.
Turn off the machine, then stir in the vanilla, bourbon (if using), and salt for added flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Invert the figgy pudding bowl onto a serving platter and slice into generous pieces.
Serve each slice with the warm sauce drizzled over the top and a dollop of cream on the side.
Enjoy this delightful and decadent dessert!
