If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this incredible Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe. It’s a classic British treat that effortlessly combines moist, rich cake made with luscious dates and a deeply satisfying, buttery toffee sauce that just clings perfectly to every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe will become your go-to showstopper that brings smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing texture, flavor, and that inviting golden color you expect from a great pudding.
- Chopped dates (1 cup): These natural sweeteners bring a rich, fruity moisture that’s essential for the pudding’s signature texture.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Used to soften the dates for a luscious, tender crumb.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps to tenderize the pudding by reacting with the dates.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The classic base that provides structure without weighing down the pudding.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures the pudding rises just enough for a delicate, soft texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch to brighten all the sweet flavors and balance the richness.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Enhances the moistness of the cake and richness of the toffee sauce.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cake batter evenly without overpowering the dates.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Key for that deep caramel flavor in the toffee sauce.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind all the ingredients together while adding a lovely lift.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a fragrant warmth underscoring both the cake and the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the toffee sauce wonderfully creamy and luscious.
How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Soften the Dates
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish—you want to avoid any sticking mishaps later. Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Adding the baking soda at this stage helps break down the dates, making them shockingly tender and ready to blend into the batter. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while the magic happens.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to create a dry mix that will give the pudding its beautiful rise and tenderness. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this airiness is what breathes life into the dessert. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract for that comforting aroma. Gently fold in your flour mixture followed by the softened dates with their soaking liquid, making sure everything is combined without overmixing.
Step 3: Bake the Pudding
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish and slide it into the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling irresistibly cozy, signaling that the pudding is just about ready.
Step 4: Craft the Toffee Sauce
While the pudding bakes, get the toffee sauce going. Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan and stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring constantly so that the sauce thickens yet remains silky smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This sauce is where all the decadence comes together and will soon transform your pudding into a glowingly sumptuous dessert.
Step 5: Combine and Soak
Once the pudding is out of the oven and still warm, poke several holes in its surface using a skewer or fork. Pour half of the toffee sauce over it, allowing the sauce to sink deep into the cake, infusing every bite with sticky sweetness. Let it rest for about 10 minutes—the wait is well worth it. Serve warm, drizzling the remaining sauce on top, and don’t forget a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence.
How to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fabulous way to personalize your Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can brighten the presentation, but if you’re feeling creative, sprinkle some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. Fresh berries or a mint sprig add a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweet richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Sticky toffee pudding shines on its own but pairing it thoughtfully can elevate the experience even more. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream to balance the warmth of the pudding with a cool creaminess. For a lighter touch, a spoonful of clotted cream or lightly whipped cream works wonders too. Even a cup of strong black coffee or rich English breakfast tea can perfectly round out the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re planning to impress guests or just want to jazz up your dessert plate, try serving individual portions in ramekins. You can also turn this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe into a trifle by layering pieces with whipped cream and toffee sauce in clear glasses. Another fun twist is serving it with caramelized bananas on top or a drizzle of dark chocolate for an extra decadent flair that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (and believe me, that doesn’t happen often), you can store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pudding and toffee sauce are cooled before covering tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for prepping in advance. Wrap the cooled pudding tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or gently heat the whole pudding in a low oven until warmed through. Be sure to warm the toffee sauce separately and drizzle fresh sauce on top before serving to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar in the toffee sauce?
Brown sugar is key for that deep caramel flavor, but you can experiment with dark muscovado sugar for a richer, more intense taste. Just note the flavor and color may be a bit darker.
What can I substitute for dates if I don’t have any?
Prunes are the best substitute for dates since they offer similar moisture and sweetness. You can also try figs, but they might change the texture slightly.
Is it possible to make this pudding gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, and you should have a similarly delicious pudding without gluten worries.
How do I make sure the pudding stays moist?
The date soaking step with baking soda is crucial for that moist texture. Also, don’t over-bake; start checking your pudding a few minutes before the timer is up to avoid drying it out.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring into the baking dish and baking as directed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of Sticky Toffee Pudding, especially when you make it yourself from scratch. This Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe is a true celebration of rich, velvety textures and caramel-soaked sweetness that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it for the first time, I promise this recipe will quickly become a treasured classic in your dessert repertoire. So go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this absolutely delicious experience.
Print
Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This classic Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe features a moist date-infused sponge cake drenched in a rich, buttery toffee sauce. Perfectly indulgent and comforting, this British dessert is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Pudding:
- 1 cup chopped dates, pitted
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toffee Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dates: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Place the chopped dates in a bowl, pour the boiling water over them, and stir in the baking soda. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to soften the dates.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Batter: Gently fold in the flour mixture, followed by the softened date mixture, until the batter is fully combined and uniform in texture.
- Bake the Pudding: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Make Toffee Sauce: While the pudding bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth sauce. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Soak Pudding: Once baked, poke holes in the warm pudding using a skewer or fork. Pour half of the toffee sauce over the pudding and allow it to soak in for 10 minutes, enhancing moisture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pudding warm with the remaining toffee sauce drizzled on top. For an extra indulgent touch, accompany with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Ensure the dates are chopped finely to distribute evenly in the batter.
- The toffee sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- For gluten-free variation, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated and gently reheated with additional toffee sauce.
