You won’t believe what I just accomplished in my kitchen – a gluten-free vegan Christmas pudding that’s absolutely incredible!
I’ve been trying to create a version that all my friends and family could enjoy together at our holiday dinner, and after a few attempts, I finally cracked the code.
The rich blend of warming spices, sweet dried fruits, and crunchy nuts creates this amazingly moist and flavorful pudding that tastes just like the classic!
I served it at our friendsgiving last weekend and literally everyone asked for seconds – nobody could tell it was both gluten-free AND vegan. This recipe is officially my holiday hero!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You can prep this days or even weeks in advance since the flavors just keep getting better with time!
You’ll love that everyone at your table can dig in without worrying about dietary restrictions, plus it uses naturally gluten-free ingredients that don’t compromise on taste or texture, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples you might already have.
This festive dessert proves you don’t need gluten or animal products to create something truly spectacular – you’ll feel amazing knowing everyone can celebrate together with this show-stopping pudding!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup currants
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped dates
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 cup gluten-free self-raising flour
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup coconut oil or vegan butter, melted
- 1 cup almond milk (or other plant milk)
- ¼ cup brandy, rum, or orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar
- Vegan brandy sauce or custard
- Fresh holly (for decoration only)
Pro Tips
- Soak the fruit overnight for the richest flavor.
- Steam gently and slowly to keep the pudding moist.
- Check water levels often while steaming and top up with hot water.
- Cool completely before wrapping if making ahead.
- Reheat by steaming—this keeps the pudding soft and luscious.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pudding basin or heatproof bowl
- Large pot or steamer with lid
- Parchment paper and foil
- Kitchen string
Substitutions and Variations
- Fruit options: Try figs, apricots, or cherries instead of cranberries or dates.
- Nut-free: Skip nuts and add extra dried fruit.
- Booze-free: Replace brandy with apple or orange juice.
- Extra spice: Add cloves or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Mini puddings: Steam smaller versions for 1–1½ hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the pudding up to 6 weeks ahead—the flavor only gets better.
- Wrap tightly in parchment and foil and store in a cool place.
- Reheat by steaming for 1 hour on the day of serving.
How to Make Gluten-Free Vegan Christmas Pudding
Step 1: Soak the Fruit
Combine raisins, currants, cranberries, and dates with brandy (or juice). Cover and soak overnight.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together gluten-free flour, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, spices, and salt.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in soaked fruit with liquid, orange zest, melted coconut oil, and almond milk until combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Basin
Grease a pudding basin, line the bottom with parchment, and spoon in the mixture.
Step 5: Cover and Steam
Cover with parchment and foil, secure with kitchen string, and steam gently for 3–4 hours. Check the water level regularly.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Cool completely, then wrap in parchment and foil. Store in a cool, dry place.
Step 7: Reheat and Serve
Re-steam for 1 hour before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and add vegan brandy sauce if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Pair with vegan brandy sauce, custard, or ice cream.
- Garnish with fresh holly for a traditional festive look.
- Serve with hot tea, mulled wine, or cider.
Leftovers & Storage
Store the pudding tightly wrapped in parchment and foil in a cool place for up to 4 weeks.
Refrigerate leftovers for 1 week or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a little plant milk.
Nutrition & Benefits
This pudding is rich in fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. Dried fruits add antioxidants and natural sweetness, while nuts contribute vitamins and minerals.
Using coconut oil or vegan butter makes it dairy-free, and gluten-free flour ensures everyone can enjoy a festive slice.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, simply use apple or orange juice instead of brandy.
2. How long does it need to steam?
3–4 hours for a full pudding, 1–1½ hours for minis.
3. Can I bake instead of steam?
Traditional flavor comes from steaming, but you can bake at 325°F for about 2½ hours.
4. How do I prevent sogginess?
Keep water from boiling over the basin and wrap tightly.
5. Can I make it nut-free?
Yes—leave out nuts and add more dried fruit or seeds.
6. Can I store it in the fridge instead of a cupboard?
Yes, refrigerate if preferred—just reheat before serving.
7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Steam for 20–30 minutes or microwave slices with a splash of plant milk.
A Classic Made Inclusive
This Gluten-Free Vegan Christmas Pudding is a festive dessert that proves holiday traditions can be adapted for everyone.
Moist, spiced, and brimming with fruit, it’s just as indulgent as the classic while being completely plant-based and gluten-free.
Whether you serve it fresh or prepare it weeks ahead, this pudding is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table.
