Fruitcake and figgy pudding are similar in that they both contain dried fruits and spices, but they are not exactly the same. The main difference lies in their preparation methods.
Fruitcake is a type of cake that is baked in the oven. It is made by combining a mixture of dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and candied citrus peel, with nuts, spices, and a batter made from flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. The mixture is then poured into a cake pan and baked until it is cooked through. The result is a dense, moist cake with a rich fruity flavor.
On the other hand, figgy pudding is traditionally shaped into a dome and either boiled or steamed. The ingredients used in figgy pudding are similar to those used in fruitcake, including dried figs, raisins, and spices. However, figgy pudding often does not contain nuts and may also include additional ingredients such as breadcrumbs, suet (beef or mutton fat), and alcohol like brandy or rum. The mixture is shaped into a dome and wrapped in a cloth or placed in a pudding mold, then boiled or steamed for several hours. This cooking method gives the figgy pudding a moist, dense texture.
Both fruitcake and figgy pudding are typically enjoyed during the holiday season, and they have a similar taste profile with their rich blend of fruits and spices. However, the different cooking methods result in slightly different textures and flavors. Fruitcake tends to be firmer and more cake-like, while figgy pudding is softer and more pudding-like.
In terms of flavor, some people find fruitcake to be sweeter and denser, while figgy pudding has a slightly earthier flavor due to the use of figs. The addition of alcohol in figgy pudding can also add a unique depth of flavor.
It’s worth noting that the term “figgy pudding” can sometimes be used interchangeably with “Christmas pudding” in certain regions. Christmas pudding is a similar steamed or boiled dessert that often contains a wider range of ingredients, including suet, breadcrumbs, and a variety of dried fruits. So, depending on where you are, figgy pudding may refer specifically to a pudding made with figs or be used more broadly to describe a Christmas pudding.
While fruitcake and figgy pudding share similarities in terms of their ingredients and flavors, they are prepared differently, with fruitcake being baked and figgy pudding being boiled or steamed. So, the next time you come across these holiday treats, you’ll know the key difference between them.