Steamed puddings are a traditional part of many festive meals, especially during the holiday season. This recipe for a Christmas Cranberry Steamed Pudding is not only delicious but also a delightful addition to your holiday feast. Follow these steps and tips to ensure you create a perfect, moist pudding that will be loved by all.
### Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) plain flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup (170ml) milk
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen cranberries, rinsed and drained
### Equipment
- Steamer basket with a snug-fitting lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Fine-mesh sieve
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### 1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure there are no lumps.
#### 2. Cream the Butter
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the chilled butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
#### 3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly with a fork.
- Gradually add the milk, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture while continuously stirring gently.
#### 4. Combine the Mixtures
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep the pudding moist and tender.
#### 5. Fold in Cranberries
- Use a spatula to fold in the cranberries evenly throughout the batter. This step is crucial for maintaining their fresh texture without them breaking down during steaming.
#### 6. Steamer Preparation
- Place your steamer basket over boiling water, making sure it doesn’t touch the water.
- Spoon the pudding mixture into the prepared steamer basket. Make sure to pack it in well but not too tightly; allow for some movement as the pudding expands slightly while cooking.
#### 7. Steam the Pudding
- Cover the steamer with a lid and steam over high heat for about 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Adjust cooking time if needed based on your specific equipment and altitude; it can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes.
#### 8. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and let the pudding cool in the steamer for about 10 minutes before unmolding onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.
### Tips for Success
- **Chilled Butter:** Cold butter helps keep the crumbs well distributed without overworking the dough.
- **Fresh Cranberries:** These add a burst of tartness and vibrant color to your pudding. Frozen cranberries also work well; just thaw them first.
- **Steaming Time:** Consistent moisture is key, so avoid opening the steamer too often.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a perfect Christmas Cranberry Steamed Pudding that’s sure to please everyone at your holiday table. Happy cooking and Merry Christmas!