The "white stuff" commonly found on Christmas pudding is typically one of two classic accompaniments: brandy butter or brandy sauce. These rich, sweet additions perfectly complement the dense, fruit-laden dessert.
Common White Accents for Christmas Pudding
While several white toppings can adorn a Christmas pudding, brandy butter and brandy sauce are by far the most traditional and recognizable.
1. Brandy Butter
Brandy butter is a very popular choice. It's a simple yet luxurious condiment made by creaming together butter, powdered sugar, and a generous amount of brandy. Often solidified when served, it melts into a delightful, boozy pool over the warm pudding, adding a creamy texture and a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Key Characteristics:
- Made from butter, sugar, and brandy.
- Typically served cold and solid, melting on contact with the hot pudding.
- Provides a rich, buttery, and alcoholic sweetness.
2. Brandy Sauce
Another quintessential white accompaniment is brandy sauce. This is a smooth, pourable sauce, often appearing as a lovely white or off-white liquid. It's considered an all-time classic sauce to slather over traditional Christmas pudding. This sauce is typically made with butter, flour, sugar, and milk or cream, with a significant addition of brandy. Since a Christmas pudding itself often contains brandy or rum, a splash of brandy added to this white sauce creates a perfect partnership, enhancing the overall festive flavor.
- Key Characteristics:
- A warm, pourable sauce, often resembling a thin custard.
- Made with a base of butter, flour, sugar, and milk/cream, generously flavored with brandy.
- Provides a creamy texture and a warm, boozy sweetness that beautifully complements the pudding.
- For more on traditional sauces, including brandy sauce, you can explore resources on traditional sauces for Christmas pudding.
Other Popular White Toppings
While brandy butter and brandy sauce are the most traditional "white stuff," other white accompaniments are also enjoyed:
- Custard: A classic vanilla custard (Crème Anglaise) is a less alcoholic, often preferred option, offering a smooth, sweet, and creamy counterpoint to the rich pudding.
- Clotted Cream: This thick, rich, and slightly yellow cream offers a velvety texture and a distinctive milky flavor that pairs well with the fruitiness of the pudding.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a refreshing, cold contrast to the warm, dense pudding.
Ultimately, the "white stuff" on Christmas pudding adds moisture, richness, and a delightful contrast to the dark, spiced dessert, enhancing the festive experience.