Get your spoons ready for Sunday 22 November 2026 – the last Sunday before Advent and the day when families traditionally gather to stir the mixture for their Christmas pudding - known as Stir-up Sunday.
Make a wish: the history of Stir-up Sunday
The day takes its name from an Anglican church prayer, which begins: "Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord..."
The words remind listeners to start stirring up their plum pudding so it has time to mature before Christmas Day.
A tradition the whole family can get involved in, the idea is that everyone should get a turn to mix, and make a wish while they do it. Some households put coins in the mix, with the finder promised wealth, health and happiness for the coming year.
Make a wish: the history of Stir-up Sunday
The day takes its name from an Anglican church prayer, which begins: "Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord..."
The words remind listeners to start stirring up their plum pudding so it has time to mature before Christmas Day.
A tradition the whole family can get involved in, the idea is that everyone should get a turn to mix, and make a wish while they do it. Some households put coins in the mix, with the finder promised wealth, health and happiness for the coming year.
Classic Christmas pudding
For some, a rich, dark Christmas pudding just can't be beaten. Make yours ahead with this classic recipe, and it'll be worth the wait on Christmas Day.
Typical Christmas pud ingredients
Dim the lights & ready the pud
FLAMBÉING
When the day comes, you'll want to flambé the pudding for a little extra theatre when serving. Warm 100ml brandy in a small saucepan, making sure it doesn't boil. Pour it over, then quickly ignite, keeping the pudding at arm's length. After the fanfare it's time to tuck in.
Puddings with a twist
The Christmas pudding is as popular as ever, but it doesn't mean you have to stay traditional. Up the ante with Amaretti or tropical fruit, make a sticky toffee version, or turn those flavours into ice cream, brownies and more.
Prepared for you
For an easier option, look out for our gorgeous Christmas puddings in your local Waitrose store and online. Our new Ottolenghi Chocolate & Clementine Christmas Pudding is a take on the classic, with Madagascan chocolate, dates, dark rum, candied clementines and Ottolenghi's signature sweet spice blend. A stunning centrepiece dessert for Christmas Day, it's delicious with our Extra Thick Mandarin, Clementine & Cointreau® Cream.