Ingredients

• Just as there are a variety of ways to create Christmas puddings, there also are several ways to make date nut cakes. However, to steam such cakes successfully, there are a few key ingredients that need to be present in the batter. Flour, eggs, baking powder, vegetable shortening, breadcrumbs and sugar create the basis of the cake's texture. These ingredients keep the cake from being weighed down through the steaming process, with the baking powder making the batter rise.

Ratios

• A pudding cake requires many eggs that work as a binder for the ingredients and add a rich flavor to the batter itself. The average one-cake recipe calls for three large eggs or four medium ones. Flour is combined with breadcrumbs in a 1-to-1 ration with butter. Add finely chopped nuts and dates in ratio of two parts dates and nuts with two parts of shortening.

Steaming

• The process of steaming Christmas pudding on the stovetop is what creates its distinct texture and characteristics. Lightly coat a pudding basin with shortening, fill it with the prepared batter and close the lid tightly. Insert the basin into a large pot filled with an inch or two of water, and cover the pot with a lid. Set your stove on medium heat so that the water simmers. Steam the pudding for at least five to six hours, adding more water as needed.

Sauce

• Traditionally, you finish a Christmas cake by basting it with a high-quality liquor, such as rum or vodka. However, for those who want to avoid the alcoholic infusion, baste the cake with honey or a simple glaze made from approximately 8 parts icing sugar to one part water; add more water if you desire a more runny glaze. For a twist on the traditional sauces, use a fruit compote instead, drizzling it on before serving.