Ingredients

• 2 big cups plain flour
• 250g dark brown sugar
• 250g butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs
• 250g currants
• 250g raisins
• 250g sultanas
• 1/2 cup of additional chopped fruits (mixed, dates, cherries)
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (don't use the packet ones)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp bi-carb soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of spice (either nutmeg or mixed spice) - optional
• 3 tbsp sweet sherry
• 3 tbsp brandy

Directions

1. Soak fruit in alcohol for at least 48 hours - mixing a couple of times
2. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one at a time
3. Mix in all dry ingredients
4. Wrap in calico cloth (wet cloth and liberally apply plain flour)
5. Tie pudding off tightly
6. Place in large boiler of boiling water, making sure the pudding is covered and place lid on.
7. Cook for 4 hours - continually filling boiler with boiling water as required.
8. Can be cooked for a further 2 hours on Christmas day (or whatever day you plan to eat it!).