Figgy Pudding — steamed fig and brandy pudding
Figgy pudding is a British steamed pudding rich with dried figs, suet, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, spices and brandy. It is the canonical Christmas pudding mentioned in the carol We Wish You a Merry Christmas, though it is now usually replaced on Christmas tables by the more familiar plum pudding.
i. Origin & history
Figgy pudding has been eaten in Britain since at least the 15th century. "Bring us a figgy pudding" in the Christmas carol reflects the historical popularity of this version of the steamed Christmas pudding.
ii. Ingredients
Makes 10 servings · scroll the side panel to adjust
- 200 g dried figs, chopped
- 200 g shredded suet
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- 100 g plain flour
- 200 g muscovado sugar
- 2 tsp mixed spice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 eggs
- 100 ml milk
- 100 ml brandy
- 2 tbsp black treacle
- 60 g chopped walnuts
iii. Method
- Mix all dry ingredients with figs and walnuts.
- Beat eggs with milk, brandy and treacle.
- Combine wet and dry to a thick batter. Tip into a 1.5 litre pudding basin lined with parchment.
- Cover with parchment, then foil, tied with string.
- Steam over simmering water for 4 hours.
- Cool slightly before turning out. Serve with brandy butter or custard.
iv. Tips & common mistakes
- Use the freshest ingredients you can. The recipe relies on them.
- Read the method through first. Several steps must be ready in advance.
- Season patiently. Sweetness and salt are tuned at the end, not the start.
v. Variations
Christmas figgy pudding is flambéed with warm brandy at the table. Plum pudding is the close cousin with mixed dried fruit. Steamed treacle pudding uses just treacle.
vi. Common questions
What is figgy pudding?
Figgy Pudding is steamed fig and brandy pudding, from british & irish cuisine. It is the canonical Christmas pudding mentioned in the carol We Wish You a Merry Christmas, though it is now usually replaced on Christmas tables by the more familiar plum pudding
Where is figgy pudding from?
Figgy Pudding is from the british & irish dessert tradition; the recipe and history are detailed above.
How long does figgy pudding keep?
See the storage note in the Quick facts panel: 3 months at room temperature.