How to Steam a Pudding

You don't need a steamer to steam a pudding, we'll teach you how in our tutorial. Whether you're wanting to learn how to steam a Christmas pudding or try your hand at a traditional steamed jam sponge pudding, simply follow our step-by-step guide below.

Step 1

Grease the inside of the pudding basin with butter. Cut a round disc of greaseproof paper to fit the base of the pudding basin and place inside.

Step 2

Place fillings inside the pudding basin. If using a sponge pudding mixture pour the mixture carefully into the basin and level out using a spatula or the back of a spoon. This will ensure that the mixture remains light and airy.

If you're steaming a Christmas pudding or another fruit-based pudding then you'll need to pack the mixture into the pudding basin as tightly as possible to ensure there are no gaps in the mixture.

Step 3

Cut a large square of aluminium foil and cut a slightly smaller square of greaseproof paper. Place the greaseproof paper on top of the aluminium foil and make a pleat by folding a crease in the centre of both the paper and the foil. This will give the pudding room to expand during cooking.

Step 4

Place the foil over the pudding basin and tie securely with string.

Step 5

Cut away any excess greaseproof paper and tuck the foil underneath. This will ensure that the pudding remains watertight.

Step 6

Make a handle for the pudding by threading a double length of string through the string already tied around the pudding. Pull it through to the other side and secure.

Step 7

Place the pudding into a saucepan and fill the water level to half way up the basin. The water level should not drop down to less than 1/4 way up the pudding basin.

Step 8

Steam for several hours, or as the recipe indicates. Top up water when necessary.

Step 9

When the pudding is steamed, cut the string around the bowl. Gently ease away the paper and foil.