Spotted Dick Recipe

Spotted Dick is one of Britain’s most comforting old-fashioned puddings—a sweet, steamed sponge studded with dried fruit (the “spots”) and served warm with silky custard. Despite its amusing name, this dessert has been a cherished part of British kitchens since the 19th century.

This Spotted Dick Recipe keeps to the traditional method: made with suet for richness, golden syrup for sweetness, and currants for that signature “spotted” look.

🍰 Ingredients (Serves 6)

Optional:
2 tbsp golden syrup or honey, for extra moisture and flavor.

🧊 Equipment Needed

• 1.2-liter (2-pint) pudding basin
• Parchment paper & foil
• String or rubber band
• Large pot or steamer

🍴 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Basin

Grease your pudding basin with butter. If you like, spoon 1 tbsp golden syrup into the base for a sticky top.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine flour, suet, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
2. Stir in the currants.
3. Gradually add milk, mixing until you have a soft but not sticky dough.

Step 3: Shape & Steam

1. Spoon mixture into the greased basin and smooth the top.
2. Cover with parchment and foil, pleated in the center to allow rising.
3. Secure with string or a rubber band.
4. Place in a large pot with hot water halfway up the sides of the basin.
5. Cover the pot and steam for 1 hour 30 minutes over gentle heat.
6. Check occasionally and top up with boiling water as needed.

Step 4: Serve

Carefully remove the basin, let cool for a minute, then turn out onto a plate.
Serve slices warm with custard, cream, or warm vanilla sauce.

🧡 Flavor Notes

• Rich & buttery from suet
• Sweet but balanced with lemon zest
• Moist and comforting when served with custard

🍯 Serving Suggestions

🧁 Tips for the Perfect Spotted Dick

• Don’t overmix – just enough to combine the dough.
• Check water levels halfway through steaming.
• Use a pudding basin lid or foil cover to keep condensation out.
• Substitute suet with cold grated butter if unavailable.