There’s something undeniably comforting about Sticky Toffee Pudding. This classic British dessert is a warm, indulgent treat that hits all the right notes with its moist sponge, rich toffee sauce, and light yet satisfying sweetness. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this dessert is a surefire way to spread delight with every bite.
Here’s how you can create the perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the sponge cake:
- 1 cup (6 oz/175g) pitted dates, roughly chopped
- ¾ cup (180ml) boiling water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the toffee sauce:
- 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
- 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard (optional but highly recommended!)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the date mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and greasing a baking pan or individual ramekins.
Place the chopped dates into a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Stir in the baking soda and allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This softens the dates, making them easier to blend and giving the sponge that iconic moist texture.
Once the dates have softened, mash them lightly with a fork or blend them into a puree using a hand blender for a smoother texture.
Step 2: Make the sponge batter
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a mixing bowl.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and light brown sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the prepared date puree. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix, as that could make the cake dense.
Pour the batter into your greased baking pan or divide evenly among ramekins if making individual portions.
Step 3: Bake the sponge
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the pudding is baking, resist the urge to open the oven door too often, as this can affect its rise.
Step 4: Prepare the toffee sauce
While your sponge is baking, make the star of this dessert—the toffee sauce.
Combine the light brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Assemble and serve
Once the sponge is done baking, pour half of the warm toffee sauce over it, allowing it to seep into the pudding for maximum flavor. Serve slices or individual portions topped with an extra drizzle of the remaining sauce.
For an extra indulgent touch, pair your Sticky Toffee Pudding with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or custard.
Tips for the Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Use high-quality dates: Medjool dates are best for their rich sweetness and soft texture, but any variety will do if softened well.
- Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the date mixture to sit with the boiling water ensures a soft and tender sponge.
- Reheat with ease: Leftovers can be reheated and are just as delicious. Store pudding pieces and sauce separately in airtight containers. Reheat the sponge in the microwave for 20–30 seconds and warm the sauce on the stovetop.
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a dessert rich in tradition and flavor, offering a nostalgic trip to British tearooms right from your own kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly evening by the fireplace or part of a holiday feast, this pudding is a true crowd-pleaser.
Give this recipe a try and tag us with your creations—we’d love to see how you make Sticky Toffee Pudding your own!
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