Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the molasses, sugar, melted butter, milk, and beaten egg. Stir in the raisins.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Prepare the Pudding Bag:
- Use a clean pudding cloth or a large piece of muslin. Dampen the cloth and wring it out. Lay it flat and sprinkle it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Place the pudding mixture in the center of the cloth, gathering the edges and tying it securely with kitchen string, leaving some room for the pudding to expand.
- Boil the Pudding:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to submerge the pudding bag. Bring the water to a boil.
- Lower the pudding bag into the boiling water, ensuring it is fully submerged. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 2 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the water level remains constant, adding more boiling water if necessary.
- Make the Sauce (Optional):
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, white sugar, and boiling water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the pudding bag from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes before unwrapping.
- Slice the pudding and serve warm with the sauce drizzled over the top.
Tips
- For Added Flavor: You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of rum to the pudding mixture.
- Preventing Water from Entering the Bag: Ensure the bag is securely tied and there are no gaps where water can seep in.
