Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate British dessert—rich, moist, and utterly indulgent. Made with finely chopped dates and brown sugar, the cake is drenched in a warm, buttery toffee sauce that soaks into every bite. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, it’s sweet, sticky, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dessert you serve when you want to leave a lasting impression.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Moist, tender cake soaked in luscious toffee sauce.
Deep caramel flavor from brown sugar and dates.
Elegant yet approachable dessert for any occasion.
Delicious warm or cold.
A crowd-pleasing comfort dessert.
Ingredients for Sticky Toffee Pudding
This isn’t just a list—it’s your flavor forecast.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your pudding, providing structure and a soft texture.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the pudding rise, making it light and fluffy.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure a perfect rise and a tender crumb.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Brown sugar: This gives the pudding its deep, caramel-like flavor and moistness.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the pudding’s structure.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Pitted dates: The star of the show! They provide natural sweetness and a unique texture.
Boiling water: Helps to soften the dates, making them easier to incorporate into the batter.
Heavy cream: Essential for the luscious toffee sauce that drizzles over the pudding.
Additional brown sugar (for sauce): This sweetens the sauce, creating that irresistible toffee flavor.
Unsalted butter (for sauce): Adds richness and a silky texture to the toffee sauce.
Vanilla extract (for sauce): A touch of this elevates the sauce, making it even more delightful.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting dates with dried figs or prunes for a different flavor profile. If you want a nutty twist, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans before baking. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding
Creating the perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding is a delightful journey. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pudding bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grease an 8-inch square baking dish. A little butter or cooking spray will do the trick!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for a fluffy texture. Set this mixture aside for later; it’ll be the backbone of your pudding.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Now, grab a large mixing bowl. Cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost.
Step 4: Soften the Dates
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped dates with boiling water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This softening process is key; it makes the dates easier to mix into the batter and enhances their sweetness.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Once the dates are softened, add the date mixture (including the water) to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender pudding!
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
Step 7: Prepare the Toffee Sauce
While the pudding is baking, it’s time to whip up the toffee sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This sauce is the cherry on top!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pudding is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut it into squares and drizzle generously with the warm toffee sauce. Trust me, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Tips for Success
Use fresh dates for the best flavor and texture; they should be soft and moist.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for a tender pudding.
Let the pudding cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
For a richer sauce, add a pinch of sea salt to the toffee sauce.
Experiment with toppings like chopped nuts or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.
Equipment Needed
8-inch square baking dish: A standard size for even baking; a round dish works too.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium one for dry.
Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; use a kitchen scale for precision.
Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients and scraping the bowl clean.
Variations of Sticky Toffee Pudding
Chocolate Sticky Toffee Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate twist.
Spiced Sticky Toffee Pudding: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based version.
Fruit-Infused Pudding: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped apples or pears for added moisture and a fruity flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Sticky Toffee Pudding
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm pudding.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light touch to the rich dessert.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
Hot Coffee: A cup of strong coffee complements the sweetness beautifully.
Presentation: Drizzle extra toffee sauce on the plate for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Sticky Toffee Pudding
What is Sticky Toffee Pudding?
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert made from moist sponge cake, typically flavored with dates, and topped with a rich toffee sauce. It’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I make Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the oven before serving, and don’t forget to warm up that luscious toffee sauce!
Is Sticky Toffee Pudding suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dessert is vegetarian-friendly! It contains no meat or fish, making it a delightful option for those following a vegetarian diet.
Can I freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with Sticky Toffee Pudding?
For a delightful pairing, serve your Sticky Toffee Pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also add a nice contrast to the rich flavors!
Final Thoughts
Creating Sticky Toffee Pudding is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen, the warm, gooey toffee sauce drizzled over each square, and the smiles it brings to your loved ones are truly priceless. This dessert is a celebration of comfort and indulgence, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet night in, this pudding transforms ordinary moments into sweet memories. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this delightful British dessert bring warmth to your table!
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a rich and moist dessert made with dates and topped with a luscious toffee sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pitted dates, chopped
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup brown sugar (for sauce)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (for sauce)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for sauce)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the dates soften.
Add the date mixture (including the water) to the butter mixture, and mix until combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the pudding is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Once the pudding is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and drizzle with the warm toffee sauce.
Notes
Serves 8.
For an extra touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
You can substitute the dates with dried figs or prunes for a different flavor profile.
For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking.
