Ice-cream Christmas Pudding

Perfect for an Australian Christmas, this version of a Christmas pudding does not require heating any oven and is the perfect dessert to cool you down! Filled with delicious toasted pistachios & pecans, dates, apricots, currants and orange zest, this ice-cream pudding is classically festive, while still being wholesome and nourishing.

2 cans coconut cream (full fat) - I recommend Ayam

1 large, overripe banana

Zest of 1 small orange

2 tbsp. pure maple syrup

1 tbsp. brandy (optional)

1 tsp. vanilla extract

2 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. nutmeg

½ tsp. allspice

½ tsp. ginger

1/8 tsp. cloves

½ cup toasted pecans, chopped

½ cup toasted pistachios, chopped

½ cup chopped dried figs and dates

½ cup sour cherries and currants

1 block 70% chocolate

Fresh cherries

1.     Line a 1.5L bowl with cling wrap, ensuring you leave enough hanging over the edges to wrap the ice cream pudding before freezing.

2.     Add the coconut milk, banana, orange zest, maple syrup, brandy (if using), vanilla and spices to a blender and process until completely smooth and combined. Pour into a large bowl.

3.     Add the chopped pecans, pistachios and dried fruit, then stir until well combined.

4.     Carefully pour the mixture into the lined bowl, fold the cling wrap over to cover the top and place into the freezer to set overnight.

5.     Remove from the freezer and allow to thaw slightly for about 10 minutes (alternatively, sit in a shallow sink of luke-warm water for a couple of minutes).

6.     Meanwhile, melt the chocolate over a double boiler. Carefully remove the ice cream pudding from the bowl by pulling on the cling wrap. Place the ice cream pudding onto a serving plate or cake stand flat side down. You can return it to the freezer now to slightly firm back up if needed. However, you want to serve it and eat it when it is slightly defrosted and softened

7.     Carefully pour the chocolate over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides like ‘icing’. Scatter with fresh cherries or berries before the chocolate completely sets and serve immediately. Enjoy!