Best Christmas puddings 2026

Whether you’re a Christmas pudding traditionalist or fancy trying something a little different, we’ve got a pud for every festive table. Discover our pick of Christmas puddings, from rich, fruity classics to indulgent alternatives, plus serving ideas and tips for the perfect festive finale.

Food Editor

Olivia Ferguson

What is Christmas pudding?

Rich, fruity and packed with festive flavour, Christmas pudding is a much-loved part of the big-day feast. Traditionally made with dried fruit, warming spices and a splash of booze, it’s usually served warm after Christmas dinner, with cream, custard or brandy butter.

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Best Classic Christmas pudding

For the traditionalists, you can’t beat a proper Christmas pudding. Matured for 12 months, this Collection version is packed with vine fruits, whole glacé cherries and Braeburn apple, enriched with cider, brandy, rum and cognac, and finished with almonds and aromatic spices. Elsewhere in the range, there’s a gluten- and dairy-free version, a serves-one pud for smaller celebrations and a cherry and orange Christmas pudding for a fruity twist.

Christmas pudding for all

Best alternative Christmas pudding

Not into fruit? Our Collection Single Origin Chocolate and Pistachio Bombe is a decadent alternative, with rich dark chocolate sponge, roasted pistachio nuts and a smooth pistachio crème centre. Finish with glossy chocolate sauce and crunchy nibbed pistachios for a showstopping festive dessert.

Christmas puddings to order

Tick one more thing off your Christmas to-do list with a showstopping dessert from our Christmas Food to Order range. We’ve got everything from classic Christmas pudding to a passion fruit and white chocolate twist on a yule log – simply order online and then collect in store just before the big day.

Best Christmas desserts

Make your own Christmas pudding

Fancy making yours from scratch? Stir-up Sunday is the perfect excuse to get ahead, with a traditional Christmas pudding packed with dried fruit and festive flavour. Make it ahead of the big day to give the flavours plenty of time to develop, then reheat and serve with your favourite festive accompaniments.

Christmas pudding recipe Stir-up Sunday ideas

How to light a Christmas pudding

Nothing says Christmas quite like a flaming pudding. Gently warm a splash of brandy or cognac, carefully pour it over your pud and ignite just before serving. Let the flames flicker and die down before slicing and tucking in.

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More Christmas inspiration at M&S Food

Keep the festive inspiration coming, with delicious Christmas recipes, gift guides and expert cooking tips. Plus, discover what's available in your local store by checking the food catalogue.

Christmas recipes Christmas in store

Published 27/10/2026