1 eating apple, cored and grated
1 lemon, zest and juice
1 orange, zest and juice
50g/2oz almonds, finely chopped
275g/10oz soft brown or white breadcrumbs
75g/3oz high quality candied peel, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cinnamon
225g/8oz currants
100g/4oz dried apricots, chopped (to about the same size as the raisins)
1 tsp ground mixed spice
½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
100g/4oz dried figs, chopped (to about the same size as the raisins)
225g/8oz seedless raisins
½ tsp salt
225g/8oz light or dark muscovado sugar
225g/8oz sultanas
butter, for greasing pudding bowls
3 free-range eggs, lightly beaten
150ml/5fl oz milk
225g/8oz shredded suet
4 tbsp brandy
150ml/5fl oz stout or similar dark beer