Ingredients
Fruits
- 400 grams mixed fruit (approximately 2 cups, firmly packed sultanas, currants, raisins, mixed peel, glace cherries)
- ½ cup medjool dates (about 9 dates, pitted)
- ½ cup orange juice
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups plain flour
- 1 ¼ tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp mixed spice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- ½ cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 150 grams butter (approx ⅔ US cup), softened at room temperature
- 2 large eggs
To Serve (Optional)
- Pouring or double cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit mixture: In a bowl, combine the mixed fruit, pitted medjool dates, and orange juice. Allow this mixture to soak for at least 30 minutes so the fruits absorb the juice and become plump and flavorful.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until pale and fluffy. This step ensures a light texture in the puddings.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the two large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the mixed spice and orange zest to infuse the batter with warm, citrusy notes.
- Sift and fold in dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, combining gently to preserve the batter’s airiness.
- Add soaked fruit: Stir the soaked fruit and its juices into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Prepare the molds: Lightly grease individual pudding molds or heatproof ramekins to prevent sticking.
- Fill and wrap: Spoon the batter into each mold, filling them about three-quarters full. Cover each with a tightly fitting lid or foil to seal in moisture during steaming.
- Steam the puddings: Place the molds into a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the puddings for about 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Check water level periodically and add more boiling water if necessary to avoid drying out.
- Cool and serve: Allow the puddings to cool slightly before carefully removing them from the molds. Serve warm with pouring cream, double cream, or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Notes
- Ensure the molds are well sealed during steaming to prevent water from dripping into the puddings.
- You can soak the mixed fruits and dates overnight for deeper flavor.
- Steaming times may vary based on mold size; adjust accordingly.
- These puddings can be made in advance and reheated by steaming gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes fruit soaking)
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: British