Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. This classic recipe features a rich blend of fruits and spices, making it perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners. The standout quality of this pudding is its moist texture paired with a luscious apple juice butter sauce that enhances its flavor, ensuring everyone will ask for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Rich Flavor: Packed with sultanas, prunes, and mixed fruits, each bite is bursting with sweetness and spice.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for holidays or family gatherings, this pudding adds a touch of tradition to your dessert table.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust the fruit mix according to your preference, making it versatile for various tastes.
• Warm and Comforting: Served warm with apple juice butter sauce, it’s a comforting treat that warms the soul.
• Impressive Presentation: The dramatic reveal of the pudding makes it a showstopper at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pudding basin
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Saucepan
• Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Pudding Basin: This specialized bowl helps shape the pudding while steaming, ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Thermometer: A must-have to check the internal temperature for perfectly cooked pudding without guesswork.

Ingredients

For the Pudding

• 1 cup sultanas
• ½ cup chopped prunes
• ¼ cup candied citrus peel
• ¼ cup glace fruit mix
• ½ cup glace mixed cherries
• 1 apple
• 1 carrot
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 3 tbsp apple juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ginger
• ½ tsp allspice
• ¼ tsp cloves
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg

For the Apple Juice Butter Sauce

• Extra apple juice (for serving)
• Icing sugar (for garnish)
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream

How to Make Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sultanas, chopped prunes, candied citrus peel, and glace fruit mix. Cut the glacé cherries in half and add them to the bowl. Peel and grate the apple and carrot, then stir them into the mixture along with the zest and juice of one orange and 3 tablespoons of apple juice. Mix well, cover, and set aside for at least one hour—overnight in the fridge works too!

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding Basin

Cut a small circle of parchment paper to fit inside the bottom of your pudding basin. Spray both the basin and parchment circle with non-stick spray. Set aside another large piece of parchment paper that will cover the top.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and spices (cinnamon through nutmeg). Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup brown sugar until crumbly. Add in one egg and continue mixing until smooth and creamy. Fold in the prepared fruit mixture until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Add your dry ingredient mix into the wet ingredients gradually while stirring until smooth. Spoon this batter into your prepared basin, smoothing out the top.

Step 6: Prepare for Steaming

Cover your pudding basin with parchment paper followed by foil. Tie tightly around edges using string to create an airtight seal.

Step 7: Steam Cook

Fill a large pot with several inches of water. Place a canning lid or folded aluminum foil under your pudding basin if it has a flat bottom so it doesn’t touch directly on pot bottom. Put your basin in pot; water should come two-thirds up its side. Cover pot with lid over medium heat until it simmers gently for about 3½ – 4 hours.

Step 8: Check Doneness

Insert a thermometer through foil into center; it should read around 200°F when done. Remove from pot after cooling for five minutes but don’t let it cool completely in its basin.

Step 9: Unmold Pudding

Remove string from foil; gently run spatula around edges to loosen pudding from sides before flipping onto serving plate.

Step 10: Make Apple Juice Butter Sauce

While steaming pudding, melt another ½ cup butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add in granulated sugar while whisking until gritty then pour in heavy cream; continue whisking until boiling.

Step 11: Finish Sauce

Once boiling remove from heat; stir in extra apple juice before serving—and don’t worry if sauce separates slightly; just add more cream when reheating!

Step 12: Serve

Dust warm pudding lightly with icing sugar before serving alongside warm apple juice butter sauce drizzled over top! Enjoy!

How to Serve Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

Serving Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce can elevate your dessert experience, especially during festive occasions. This rich and moist pudding pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

With a Dusting of Icing Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle icing sugar over the pudding before serving for an elegant touch that adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruits

• Serve slices of fresh apples or pears alongside the pudding. The crispness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the dense texture of the pudding.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the pudding, making each bite even more delightful.

Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing warm plum pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a wonderful temperature contrast, making it a favorite for many.

Drizzled with Extra Apple Juice Butter Sauce

• For those who love extra flavor, serve additional apple juice butter sauce on the side. It allows guests to customize their serving according to their taste preferences.

With Tea or Coffee

• Offering a cup of hot tea or coffee complements the richness of the pudding and provides a comforting finish to the meal.

How to Perfect Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

Perfecting your Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce requires careful attention to detail in both preparation and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your pudding turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all fruits and spices are fresh for maximum flavor. This makes a significant difference in taste.

• Soak Your Fruits: Letting your dried fruits soak for at least an hour (or overnight) allows them to plump up, adding moisture and richness to the pudding.

• Check Water Levels: While steaming, frequently monitor water levels in your pot to prevent it from drying out. Keeping consistent steam is crucial for cooking evenly.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow the pudding to cool slightly after steaming before removing it from the basin. This helps maintain its shape and texture.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices or add other dried fruits like raisins or currants to personalize your pudding recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

Complementing your Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce with side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples in cinnamon and sugar until tender for a warm, spiced addition that pairs beautifully with pudding.

2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg add crunch and a savory contrast that balances out the sweetness of the pudding.

3. Fruit Compote: A mix of cooked berries or stone fruits creates a fresh, tart compote that cuts through the richness of the pudding.

4. Custard Sauce: A creamy custard served warm or cold is classic alongside plum pudding, adding smoothness that enhances each bite.

5. Baked Pears: Oven-baked pears drizzled with honey provide a juicy, sweet side dish that complements the flavors in the plum pudding.

6. Gingerbread Cookies: Offering small gingerbread cookies adds a festive touch and pairs nicely due to their spiced flavor profile.

7. Cheese Platter: Select mild cheeses like brie or gouda that can balance sweet desserts while providing savory elements.

8. Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles can satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings while offering an indulgent side option next to your plum pudding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce, it’s important to keep a few common mistakes in mind to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Bold Preparation Time: Don’t underestimate the prep time! Taking shortcuts can lead to uneven mixing or insufficient flavor absorption. Allow at least one hour for the fruit mixture to rest.

• Bold Overmixing Batter: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding dry ingredients. This can result in a dense pudding. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Bold Ignoring Temperature Checks: Checking the temperature of your pudding is crucial. If you skip this step, you risk undercooking or overcooking. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 200°F.

• Bold Improper Greasing: Failing to grease the pudding basin properly can cause sticking. Use non-stick spray and parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

• Bold Skipping the Sauce: The apple juice butter sauce is essential! Skipping this step means missing out on a deliciously complementary flavor that enhances the entire dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pudding in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The pudding can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Cut into slices and heat on medium power for about 30 seconds per slice, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a steamer basket over simmering water for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce.

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried?

Yes, but keep in mind that using fresh fruits will change the texture and moisture level of your pudding.

How do I serve Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce?

Serve warm on a plate, drizzled generously with the warm apple juice butter sauce. Garnish with icing sugar if desired.

What can I substitute for butter in the sauce?

You can use vegan butter or coconut oil as alternatives while keeping the same creamy consistency.

How long does it take to cook plum pudding?

Cooking time varies but generally takes between 3 1/2 to 4 hours on low simmer. Always check for doneness using a thermometer.

Final Thoughts

Traditional Plum Pudding with apple juice Butter Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite dried fruits or spices. This recipe promises warmth and comfort, inviting everyone to indulge!