Cole’s has extended its festive range with a new pudding infused with cognac and brandy.

Branded as the Connoisseur Christmas Pudding, the product contains sultanas, currants, raisins, almonds, apricots and walnuts, and carries a recommended retail price of £8.49 for 454g (1lb). It has a two-year shelf life and can be heated in a microwave, steamed or boiled.

Cole’s, which is based near Saffron Walden, Essex, describes the new pud as “full of flavour, yet light enough to eat after a rich Christmas roast”.

Founded as a family bakery in 1939, Cole’s became part of Wilkin & Sons in 2010. The business produces a range of Christmas, speciality and steamed sponge puddings under its own brand and for private-label customers.

“We have used the expertise, gained from several generations of pudding baking, to create the Cole’s Connoisseur Christmas Pudding,” said Cole’s Puddings director Simon Hatcher. “It is aimed at consumers seeking a special pudding for a special day, whether Christmas Day or a special celebration dinner.”