There is nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a classic Sticky Date Pudding Recipe to brighten any day or night. This beloved dessert boasts moist, tender cake made from sweet, naturally rich dates, paired with a luscious caramel-like sauce that seeps into every bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this pudding delivers a perfect harmony of sweet, sticky, and buttery flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let me walk you through how to bring this timeless treat to life using simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sticky Date Pudding Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the cake’s signature tender crumb and the indulgently sticky sauce that complements it perfectly. From the natural sweetness of dates to the rich butter and cream, every element enhances the flavor and texture in a unique way.
- 280g / 9 oz pitted dates (roughly chopped): These naturally sweet, soft fruits add wonderful moisture and flavor to the pudding.
- 1 tsp baking soda / bi carb soda: Reacts with the dates’ acidity to help create a light, airy texture.
- 1 cup boiling water: This hydrates the dates, softening them for a luscious puree that integrates seamlessly into the batter.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (loosely packed): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the pudding’s base.
- 80g / 6 tbsp unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and tenderness to the cake’s crumb.
- 2 eggs (at room temperature): Essential for binding the ingredients and adding structure.
- 1 1/4 cups plain flour (all purpose flour): Forms the cake base, holding everything together with just the right firmness.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and maintain a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar (tightly packed): For that deep caramel flavor in the sticky sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups thickened cream (heavy cream): Creates the rich, creamy sauce that’s poured over the pudding.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, inviting notes.
- 70g / 5 tbsp unsalted butter: Used in the sauce to add a silky, buttery finish.
- Ice cream or dolloping cream: Perfect accompaniments for serving that elevate every spoonful.
How to Make Sticky Date Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pudding Moulds
Start by setting your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Grease seven pudding moulds or lightly butter a 20 cm / 8″ square cake pan with some softened butter. If using a cake pan, be sure to line it with baking paper, allowing an overhang to help lift the pudding out easily later on. This setup ensures your pudding bakes evenly and releases perfectly.
Step 2: Soften Dates in Boiling Water with Baking Soda
Place the roughly chopped dates in a bowl, sprinkle the baking soda over them, then pour in the boiling water. The hot water softens the dates while baking soda interacts to tenderize them further, breaking them down into a sticky, flavorful base. Set this aside to cool somewhat; this step is what makes the pudding moist and incredibly tender.
Step 3: Mix the Batter For the Cake
While the dates cool, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they combine fully to give you that light texture in the final pudding. Gradually fold in the sifted flour and baking powder, then slowly mix in the softened date mixture. Your batter should be thick and rich with the promise of sticky sweetness to come.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared moulds or pour into your lined cake pan. Transfer to the oven and bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. This stage fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma—almost impossible not to sneak a bite once cooled!
Step 5: Prepare the Decadent Sticky Sauce
While the pudding bakes, combine the brown sugar, thickened cream, vanilla extract, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly into a luscious, glossy sauce. This sauce is the crown jewel of this Sticky Date Pudding Recipe, so take time to get it just right.
Step 6: Serve the Pudding Warm with Sauce
Once the puddings are baked, remove them from the oven and let them rest briefly. Pour over plenty of your homemade sticky sauce while the pudding is still warm, allowing it to soak in and create that signature, sticky, caramelized finish that’s pure heaven.
Step 7: Add Your Favorite Finishing Touches
Finish by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of fresh cream on the side to contrast beautifully with the warm, rich pudding. This final touch enhances the experience and balances the intense sweetness with cool creaminess.
How to Serve Sticky Date Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Sticky Date Pudding is beautifully complemented with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. These add visual appeal and extra layers of flavor and texture for a delightful eating experience.
Side Dishes
Serve your sticky pudding alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous spoonful of whipped cream. Fresh sliced fruits like pears or apples can bring a refreshing contrast too, making every bite balanced and satisfying rather than overwhelmingly sweet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual puddings in glass cups layered with sauce and cream for a deconstructed look. Or, use mini ramekins for single servings to gift guests. You can also top it with caramelized banana for added flair and tropical sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pudding can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the sauce separately or pour it over just before reheating to preserve its silky texture.
Freezing
This Sticky Date Pudding Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat your pudding in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Pour over freshly heated sticky sauce, and it will feel just like freshly made. Be sure not to overheat to keep it soft and moist.
FAQs
Can I use different types of dates for this pudding?
Absolutely! Medjool dates are a popular choice because they’re soft and sweet, but any soft, pitted dates will work well. Just make sure to chop them finely and soak them thoroughly for the best texture.
Is this Sticky Date Pudding Recipe gluten-free?
This recipe uses plain flour by default, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it has baking powder included, to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising taste.
Can I make this pudding dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the butter for a non-dairy margarine and use coconut cream or another dairy-free cream alternative for the sauce. The pudding’s flavor will still be rich and comforting.
How do I know when the pudding is fully cooked?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the pudding; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not raw batter), the pudding is perfectly baked.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the batter a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed. Just give the batter a gentle stir before baking to keep it light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sticky Date Pudding Recipe is your answer. Easy to make, full of comforting flavors, and endlessly satisfying, it’s a recipe that invites sharing and savoring. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a treasured classic. So go ahead — gather those ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy, delicious experience tonight!
Print
Sticky Date Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 7 to 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This classic Sticky Date Pudding features moist sponge loaded with sweet, tender dates soaked in a rich, buttery caramel sauce. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a warm, comforting treat, it pairs beautifully with cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Date Sponge
- 280g / 9 oz pitted dates, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp baking soda (bi carb soda)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, loosely packed
- 80g / 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups plain (all-purpose) flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
Sticky Toffee Sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1 1/2 cups thickened cream (heavy cream)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 70g / 5 tbsp unsalted butter
To Serve
- Ice cream or dolloping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C fan-forced. This temperature ensures your pudding will cook evenly to a golden, moist finish.
- Prepare the Moulds: Grease seven pudding moulds with butter or cooking spray. Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square cake pan with parchment paper with an overhang for easy removal after baking.
- Soften Dates Mixture: Place the chopped dates and baking soda into a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Let this mixture soak for about 10 minutes to soften the dates and activate the soda for lift.
- Mix the Sponge Batter: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time until incorporated. Sift in the flour and baking powder and gently fold. Stir in the soaked date mixture, including any remaining liquid, until well combined.
- Fill and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pudding moulds and the lined cake pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are firm to the touch.
- Make Sticky Toffee Sauce: While the puddings bake, mix 1 cup brown sugar, 1 1/2 cups thickened cream, vanilla extract, and 70g butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove puddings from the oven and unmould while warm. Serve drizzled generously with warm sticky toffee sauce and accompanied by ice cream or dolloping cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Notes
- Use fresh pitted dates for best texture and flavor. Chop roughly to help them soften evenly.
- If you don’t have pudding moulds, use small ramekins or a single cake pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better batter consistency and rise.
- The sticky toffee sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend.
