If you have a fondness for comforting desserts that feel like a warm hug, then the Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This delightful treat brings together a medley of dried fruits, a hint of vibrant orange zest, and the magic of gentle steaming to create moist, tender puddings bursting with flavor. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, each mini pudding offers a rich texture and a luscious taste that is both nostalgic and refreshingly unique. Whether you’re aiming to impress at afternoon tea or simply craving a cozy indulgence, this recipe delivers a truly satisfying experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single round pudding with a light brown color and small dark spots sits on a white plate which is placed on a larger white plate, all on a white marbled surface. Creamy white sauce is being poured over the top of the pudding from a white jug, flowing down the side. A small green leaf is placed next to the pudding on the plate. The background is softly blurred with a white cloth and decorative silver balls in soft focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing the Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe to life. From the juicy burst of mixed fruits to the warm, fragrant spices, these components combine to form a perfect balance of sweetness and zest, texture and moisture.

Mixed fruit (400 grams): A colorful combination of sultanas, currants, raisins, mixed peel, and glace cherries that infuse the pudding with natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Medjool dates (½ cup): These add rich caramel notes and a luscious mouthfeel; make sure they are pitted for easy mixing.
Orange juice (½ cup): Adds brightness and moisture, enhancing the zesty flavor that cuts through the sweetness.
Butter (150 grams): Softened at room temperature, butter lends richness and helps create a tender crumb.
Brown sugar (½ cup): Provides deep molasses undertones that complement the dried fruits beautifully.
Eggs (2 large): Bind everything together while adding a slight fluffiness.
Mixed spice (2 tsp): A warm blend that brings depth and aroma, perfectly suited to fruit puddings.
Orange zest (1 tsp): Imparts a fresh citrus punch to brighten each bite.
Plain flour (1 ½ cups): The base that holds the puddings together, providing structure without heaviness.
Baking powder (1 ¼ tsp): Helps the puddings rise gently during steaming, ensuring a light texture.

How to Make Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

Start by combining your mixed fruit and medjool dates in a large bowl. Pour over the orange juice and let the fruits soak for at least 10 minutes. This soaking infuses them with citrus brightness and softens the dates, making the overall texture more delightful.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process not only blends sweetness but also introduces air, which is essential for a tender pudding crumb.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings

Beat the eggs into your creamy butter and sugar mixture one at a time. Then gently stir in the mixed spice and orange zest, infusing your batter with warm, inviting aromas and a zingy twist that will shine through after steaming.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the plain flour and baking powder to ensure they are evenly mixed and to avoid lumps. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, being careful not to overmix, which helps keep the puddings soft and light.

Step 5: Fold in the Fruit

Gently fold the soaked mixed fruits and dates (including any remaining juice) into the batter. This distributes the fruit evenly, so each pudding will have a beautiful balance of flavors and texture.

Step 6: Prepare Pudding Molds and Steam

Grease your mini pudding molds or heatproof ramekins well to prevent sticking. Fill each mold about three-quarters full with the batter. Cover them tightly with baking parchment and foil to keep steam in, then place them in a large steamer or a deep pan with simmering water. Steam for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

How to Serve Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe

The image shows four small metal baking cups placed on a white marbled surface, three filled with a thick, orange-yellow batter that has dark spots scattered inside, suggesting pieces of fruit or nuts mixed in, while one cup is empty. The batter in the cups looks creamy and slightly lumpy, filling about two-thirds of each cup height. The lighting highlights a soft shine on the batter surface and the metallic sheen of the cups. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elegant garnishes turn these cozy puddings into a showstopper. A drizzle of pouring cream or a spoonful of double cream adds lusciousness and cool contrast, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a delightful chill and smooth texture. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra orange zest or dust with cinnamon.

Side Dishes

These mini puddings are fantastic on their own but pair brilliantly with seasonal fruits such as stewed apples or spiced berries. A generous cup of tea or coffee completes the comforting experience, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon treat or a relaxed dessert after dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe in pretty teacups or vintage china to add charm. Wrap each pudding in a festive cloth or tie with a colorful ribbon if gifting. You can also drizzle some warm caramel or a fruit coulis artistically on the plate for a pop of color and extra flavor dimension.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover puddings keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Storing them properly preserves their moisture and flavor, making it easy to enjoy a sweet moment without having to bake again.

Freezing

You can freeze these puddings individually wrapped in cling film and foil for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes them a great make-ahead dessert for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To warm the puddings, steam them lightly again for 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium power for about a minute until heated through. Reheating gently helps maintain their soft texture without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried mixed fruits?

Fresh fruits tend to release more moisture, which can affect the pudding’s texture and cooking time. The dried fruits provide concentrated sweetness and the chewy texture that defines steamed fruit puddings, so it’s best to stick with them for authentic results.

What is the best way to steam these puddings if I don’t have a steamer?

A deep pan with a tight-fitting lid works just as well. Simply place a heatproof rack or an inverted plate at the bottom, add simmering water, and position the pudding molds on top. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bases of the molds and keep the water at a gentle simmer.

Can I make these puddings vegan?

Substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and replacing eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes could work, but results may vary. The texture might be slightly different, so it’s worth experimenting or following a dedicated vegan steamed pudding recipe for best results.

Why is orange zest important in this recipe?

Orange zest brings a fresh, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness and sweetness of the fruits and sugar. It lifts the flavor profile and adds a delightful aromatic note that complements the spices and mixed fruits beautifully.

How do I know when the puddings are fully cooked?

Insert a clean skewer or toothpick into the center of a pudding. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the pudding is done. If it’s wet with batter, continue steaming and check again every 5-10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Mini Steamed Fruit Puddings with Mixed Fruits and Orange Zest Recipe is a heartwarming treat that blends tradition with fresh flavors in every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and share joy with friends and family. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and discover how this little pudding can bring so much happiness to your table.