This Vegan Christmas Pudding is rich, moist, and packed with festive flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. Here’s a detailed recipe based on the best practices from various sources.

Ingredients

• 350 g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, and chopped dried figs or dates)
• 140 ml vegan-friendly sherry or brandy
• 120 g soft light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon mixed spice (or pumpkin spice)
• 60 g self-raising flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 60 g fresh breadcrumbs (from stale bread)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 120 g vegetable suet (or coconut oil)
• 40 g walnuts, roughly chopped (optional)
• 60 ml non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy)
• 1½ tablespoons soy yogurt (plain)
• 1 tablespoon black treacle or molasses
• 120 ml stout or dark beer (check it’s vegan)

Instructions

Soak the Dried Fruit:

• In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit with the sherry or brandy. Cover and let soak overnight to absorb the flavors.

Prepare the Pudding Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, mixed spice, flour, baking powder, salt, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, orange zest, and walnuts (if using).
• In another bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, soy yogurt, black treacle, and stout until well combined.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.

Grease the Basin:

• Grease a 1.1-liter (2-pint) pudding basin with vegan butter and line the bottom with greaseproof paper.

Combine Ingredients:

• Stir in the soaked fruit mixture into the pudding batter until evenly distributed.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared basin, smoothing out the top. Make sure not to overfill; leave some space for expansion.

Cover and Steam:

• Cut a circle of greaseproof paper to cover the top of the pudding. If your basin has a lid, use it; if not, cover tightly with foil.
• Place a jam jar lid in the bottom of a large saucepan and set the pudding basin on top. Fill with water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the basin.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover with a lid. Steam for about 4 hours, checking occasionally to ensure there’s enough water.

Cool and Store:

• Once cooked, carefully remove the pudding from the pan and let it cool for 20 minutes before flipping it onto a plate.
• Wrap tightly in foil and store in a cool place until Christmas. You can feed it with extra brandy weekly for added flavor.

Serve:

• On Christmas Day, steam again for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Traditionally served with brandy sauce or vegan cream.

Tips

• For best results, use gram measurements instead of cups for accuracy.
• Feel free to customize your dried fruits based on personal preference.
• Ensure all ingredients are vegan-friendly by checking labels.

Creative Ways to Serve Vegan Christmas Pudding

1. Brandy Sauce: Serve with a warm vegan brandy sauce made from non-dairy milk, sugar, and a splash of brandy.
2. Vegan Custard: Pair the pudding with homemade vegan custard for a classic combination.
3. Coconut Cream: Top with whipped coconut cream for a rich and creamy texture.
4. Ice Cream: Serve slices of pudding with dairy-free ice cream for a delightful contrast.
5. Fruit Compote: Accompany with a warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits like apples and berries.
6. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with a rich vegan chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist.

Can I Use a Different Type of Non-Dairy Milk in the Vegan Christmas Pudding Recipe?

Yes, you can use various types of non-dairy milk in the vegan Christmas pudding recipe. Options include:

• Almond Milk
• Oat Milk
• Soy Milk
• Cashew Milk
  These alternatives can be used interchangeably without significantly affecting the flavor or texture of the pudding.

How Can I Make a Vegan Christmas Pudding Without Using Brandy?

If you prefer not to use brandy, you can substitute it with:

• Orange Juice: Adds a fruity flavor without the alcohol.
• Apple Juice: Provides sweetness and moisture.
• Non-Alcoholic Wine: For a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
• Fruit Infused Water: A light option that maintains moisture while adding subtle flavors.

What Are Some Good Alternatives to Vegetable Suet for Vegan Christmas Pudding?

Alternatives to vegetable suet in vegan Christmas pudding include:

• Coconut Oil: Use refined coconut oil for a neutral flavor.
• Vegan Butter: A good substitute that provides richness.
• Nut Butters: Such as almond or cashew butter, for added flavor and moisture.
• Applesauce: Can be used to replace some fat while adding sweetness.

How Long Can I Store a Vegan Christmas Pudding Before Serving?

A vegan Christmas pudding can be stored for several weeks to months:

• Refrigerated: Up to 2 weeks if tightly wrapped.
• Frozen: Up to 6 months if well-wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
  For best results, allow it to mature by feeding it with a splash of brandy or juice every week before serving.

These tips will help you create and serve your vegan Christmas pudding in delightful ways!

This recipe yields a deliciously festive Vegan Christmas Pudding that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike! Enjoy your holiday celebrations!