Festive New Zealand Ice Cream Christmas Pudding
Delight in the flavors of the holiday season with this exquisite Festive New Zealand Ice Cream Christmas Pudding. This recipe combines rich dried fruits soaked in brandy with creamy vanilla ice cream, fine dark chocolate, and crunchy toasted almonds, creating a delectable dessert perfect for sharing. Embrace the spirit of celebration and elevate your festive gatherings with this stunning dessert that freezes beautifully and is sure to impress your guests. Every bite is a harmony of texture and flavor that encapsulates the joy of Christmas.
8
Servings
225
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
sultanas
1/2 cup (none)
currants
1/2 cup (none)
chopped raisins
1/2 cup (chopped)
dessert fig
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
brandy
1/2 cup (none)
dried apricots
10 (chopped)
good quality vanilla ice cream
2 liters (softened)
dark chocolate
50 g (chopped)
sliced almonds
1/2 cup (toasted)
red and green cherries
1 packet each (for decoration)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the sultanas, currants, chopped raisins, and finely chopped dessert figs.
2
Pour in the brandy and add the chopped dried apricots, mixing well. Cover the bowl and allow the mixture to soak for 12-24 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure all fruits are nicely infused.
3
Once soaked, in a separate large mixing bowl, gently fold the softened vanilla ice cream into the soaked fruit mixture until thoroughly combined.
4
Add the chopped dark chocolate and toasted sliced almonds into the ice cream-fruit mixture, folding until evenly distributed.
5
Prepare a large pudding bowl, basin, or loaf pan by lining it with plastic wrap, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal.
6
Spoon the fruit and ice cream mixture into the lined container, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7
Cover the mixture with the overhanging plastic wrap and freeze until firm, which may take several hours or overnight.
8
When ready to serve, remove the pudding from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before gently turning it out onto a chilled serving platter.
9
Decorate with seasonal red and green cherries and surround with fresh berries for a festive touch.
10
This dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 weeks.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
35g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Festive New Zealand Ice Cream Christmas Pudding?
It is a frozen holiday dessert that combines brandy-soaked dried fruits with creamy vanilla ice cream, dark chocolate, and toasted almonds.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
How long should the dried fruits soak in brandy?
The fruits should be soaked for 12 to 24 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even infusion.
What are the primary ingredients for the fruit mixture?
The mixture consists of sultanas, currants, chopped raisins, dessert figs, and brandy.
Can I store this dessert in the freezer?
Yes, this dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 weeks.
What type of ice cream is recommended?
A good quality vanilla ice cream is recommended for the best flavor and creamy texture.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories.
Is there any preparation needed for the almonds?
The sliced almonds should be toasted before being folded into the ice cream mixture.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7.5g of fat per serving.
How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the bowl?
Line the pudding bowl or loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
How should I decorate the pudding for serving?
Decorate the pudding with red and green cherries and surround it with fresh berries for a festive appearance.
Does this recipe contain chocolate?
Yes, it includes 50 grams of chopped dark chocolate.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 35g of carbohydrates.
How do I unmold the frozen pudding?
Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then use the plastic wrap edges to gently lift and turn it out onto a chilled platter.
Can I substitute the brandy?
While brandy provides a traditional flavor, you can use orange juice or a non-alcoholic fruit juice for a different version.
How much protein is in this dessert?
The dessert provides 2.5g of protein per serving.
What fruits are used besides sultanas and raisins?
The recipe also uses currants, dried apricots, and finely chopped dessert figs.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a frozen dessert that requires no baking.
What type of container can I use to freeze it?
You can use a large pudding bowl, a basin, or a standard loaf pan.
How much ice cream is required?
You will need 2 liters of softened vanilla ice cream.
How long does it take to freeze completely?
It should be frozen until firm, which typically takes several hours or overnight.
What is the preparation for the dried apricots?
The dried apricots should be chopped before being added to the brandy mixture.
Are there any nuts in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe contains 1/2 cup of toasted sliced almonds.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, since it keeps for up to 6 weeks in the freezer, it is an excellent make-ahead dessert for the holidays.
What should I do with the plastic wrap during freezing?
Cover the top of the ice cream mixture with the overhanging plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
How many grams of chocolate are used?
The recipe calls for 50 grams of dark chocolate.
What is the preparation for the dessert figs?
The dessert figs should be finely chopped.
Is this dessert suitable for a summer Christmas?
Yes, being a frozen ice cream dessert, it is particularly popular for New Zealand's warm Christmas season.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 10 specific ingredients used in this recipe.
Should the serving platter be chilled?
Yes, turning the pudding out onto a chilled serving platter helps keep it frozen longer while serving.