How to Make Summer Pudding – A Classic British Summer Dessert

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Summer pudding is a true British classic – light, fruity, and bursting with seasonal berries. Unlike heavier puddings, this no-bake dessert is served chilled and is perfect for showcasing the best of British summer fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and redcurrants.

In this blog post, you’ll learn exactly how to make summer pudding at home using simple ingredients. Whether you're preparing for a family picnic, afternoon tea, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

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What Is Summer Pudding?

Summer pudding is a traditional British dessert made by layering bread with a sweet berry compote, then chilling it until the juices soak through. The result is a beautiful, jewel-toned pudding that slices perfectly and tastes just as good as it looks.

It’s believed to have originated in the early 20th century, possibly in health spas, where it was promoted as a lighter alternative to suet puddings.

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

500g mixed summer berries (raspberries, strawberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, blackberries)

100g caster sugar (adjust to taste)

6–8 slices of day-old white bread (crusts removed)

Extra berries or mint to garnish (optional)

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Equipment Needed

Small pudding basin (approx. 1-litre capacity) or a deep bowl

Cling film

Saucepan

Sieve (optional)

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Method

Step 1: Prepare the Berries

Rinse all the berries and remove any stalks.

Halve or quarter the strawberries if they are large.

Place the berries (except a handful for garnish) in a saucepan with the caster sugar.

Step 2: Make the Fruit Compote

Gently heat the fruit and sugar over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes, just until the juices are released and the sugar is dissolved.

You’re not trying to cook the fruit too much – it should still hold some shape.

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

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Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Basin

Line your pudding basin or bowl with cling film, leaving extra hanging over the edges.

Line the base and sides with slices of bread, overlapping slightly and trimming to fit neatly. Make sure there are no gaps.

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Step 4: Assemble the Pudding

Spoon about two-thirds of the fruit and juice into the lined basin.

Add another layer of bread on top to seal in the fruit.

Use the remaining fruit juice to drizzle over the top layer so everything is nicely soaked.

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Step 5: Chill and Set

Fold the cling film over the top.

Place a small plate or saucer that fits inside the rim of the bowl on top, then weigh it down with a tin or similar heavy object.

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the juices to fully absorb into the bread.

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Step 6: Turn Out and Serve

When ready to serve, unwrap the cling film from the top, place a serving plate over the bowl, and carefully flip it upside down.

Gently lift off the bowl and peel away the cling film.

Garnish with extra berries or a sprig of mint, if desired.

Serve with clotted cream, double cream, or even vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

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Tips for the Perfect Summer Pudding

Use day-old bread: Slightly stale white bread holds its shape better and soaks up juices more effectively.

Adjust sweetness: If your berries are very sweet, reduce the sugar. Tart fruits like redcurrants may need a bit more.

Berry swaps: No need to stick strictly to the listed berries – cherries, blueberries, or even gooseberries can be used.

Make ahead: This dessert is best made the day before, which makes it ideal for entertaining.

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Why You’ll Love Summer Pudding

No baking required – perfect for hot summer days.

Vibrant and impressive – makes a stunning centrepiece.

Naturally light – lower in fat and full of fruit.

Customisable – great for using up garden or market fruit.

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Final Thoughts

Summer pudding is a delightfully simple and elegant British dessert that celebrates the best of the season. With its striking colour, fruity freshness, and minimal effort, it’s easy to see why it has remained a favourite for generations.

Whether served at a summer garden party or a quiet family lunch, summer pudding is guaranteed to impress.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.