This Clootie Dumpling is a beloved Scottish classic, offering a dense, moist texture packed with warm spices and sweet dried fruits. Unlike typical puddings, it is steamed in a cloth (“clout”) rather than a basin, giving it a distinctive flattened shape and tender crust. The batter combines flour, suet, currants, sultanas, and a hint of cinnamon for deep, comforting flavors. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or as a festive dessert, especially when served warm with custard or cream. This recipe requires patience but rewards you with an authentic, homestyle treat that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Clootie Dumpling
Description
This Clootie Dumpling is a beloved Scottish classic, offering a dense, moist texture packed with warm spices and sweet dried fruits. Unlike typical puddings, it is steamed in a cloth ("clout") rather than a basin, giving it a distinctive flattened shape and tender crust. The batter combines flour, suet, currants, sultanas, and a hint of cinnamon for deep, comforting flavors. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for afternoon tea or as a festive dessert, especially when served warm with custard or cream. This recipe requires patience but rewards you with an authentic, homestyle treat that feels like a hug in a bowl.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare the pudding cloth by dipping a square of cheesecloth in boiling water, then shaking it out and dredging it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
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In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, shredded suet, currants, sultanas, castor sugar, ground cinnamon, and baking soda.
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Gradually stir in the buttermilk or sour milk until a soft, thick batter forms that holds together but is still pliable.
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Place the floured cloth in a large basin and spoon the batter into the center, leaving enough space around the edges for tying.
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Gather the edges of the cloth together and tie them securely with kitchen string, ensuring there is enough room inside for the dumpling to expand during cooking.
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Place a saucer or plate at the bottom of a large saucepan to prevent the dumpling from sticking, then carefully lift the tied dumpling into the pan.
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Pour boiling water into the pan until the dumpling is completely submerged, cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 2 hours.
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Check the water level occasionally and add more boiling water as needed to keep the dumpling covered.
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Once cooked, carefully remove the dumpling from the water and untie the cloth, letting it drain for a moment.
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Turn the dumpling out onto a hot serving dish, dust with additional castor sugar, and serve warm with hot custard sauce or cream.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 546.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.5g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.3g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 3.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 114.0g38%
- Dietary Fiber 4.1g17%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 15.0g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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