ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS… IS NO CHRISTMAS PUDDING!

Why I’m reinventing a festive classic to keep it alive

I’ll let you in on a secret – even as a chef, I know Christmas pudding isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Dai Llewellyn

For me, it’s always been more than just a dessert. It’s a symbol of family, tradition, and that comforting sense of nostalgia that makes Christmas so special. But here’s the truth: the Christmas pudding is in trouble.

Our latest research at Co-op shows that nearly half of Gen Z shoppers don’t like Christmas pudding and some have never even tried it. Two-thirds of 18–28 year olds think it’s “just for older people.” If that trend continues, this iconic dessert could vanish from our festive tables within the next decade.

Why Are We Falling Out of Love With the Pud?

Traditionally, Christmas pudding dates back to medieval England – rich with dried fruits, spices, and suet, and famously stirred with a sixpence for luck. But today, many families admit it’s more for show than for eating:

• 55% say it’s usually just for one person in the household.
• 50% confess it often goes uneaten or wasted.
• 51% admit it’s mostly brought out for tradition.

Instead, lighter, chocolatey desserts like cheesecake or yule log are taking centre stage. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 households don’t serve Christmas pudding at all.

Not All Hope Is Lost

The good news? 75% of Baby Boomers and 56% of Gen X still love it, and nostalgia plays a huge role in keeping traditions alive. Almost half of us who grew up with traditional festive food are more likely to keep enjoying it as adults.

And here’s the exciting part: 54% of Gen Z say they’d give Christmas pudding another chance if it was reinvented.

My Mission: Reinvent the Pud

That’s where I come in. As Co-op’s Innovation Chef, I want to keep the magic of Christmas pudding alive but in a way that feels fresh, fun, and a little lighter. Here are my top five ideas to give the pud a modern twist:

1. Christmas Pudding Cheesecake
Crumble leftover pudding into a cheesecake mix with a ginger biscuit base for a creamy, indulgent alternative.

2. Pudding Bites
Roll chunks of pudding into balls, dip in a light batter, fry until crisp, and serve with custard for dipping.

3. Christmas Pudding Strudel
Wrap broken-up pudding in filo pastry, bake until golden, and serve with apple sauce and vanilla ice cream.

4. Christmas Pudding Ice Cream
Mash pudding into vanilla ice cream for a festive twist – perfect alongside mince pies or chocolate cake.

5. Sticky Toffee-Inspired Pud
If you’re making from scratch, add chopped dates, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a sticky toffee vibe. Or try my favourite: spiced apple and caramel with flecks of vanilla – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

And here’s a tip: puddings now come in all shapes and sizes, so even a small one can offer a nibble without the fear of heaviness after the main meal – keeping the tradition alive without the waste.

So, What’s on Your Table This Year?

Will you be serving Christmas pudding – or giving one of my twists a try?
Share your festive creations with us on social and tag @CoopUK. Let’s keep the tradition alive – together.

Want More Festive Inspiration?

Head to coop.co.uk/christmas for festive ideas to make your celebrations extra special.