Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Traditional English Dessert

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a beloved English dessert known for its moist, rich sponge cake made with dates and a warm, buttery toffee sauce that adds a comforting sweetness to every bite. This dessert is traditionally served warm and topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of classic British treats or trying sticky toffee pudding for the first time, this recipe will show you how to make the perfect version of this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients for Sticky Toffee Pudding

For the Pudding:

1 cup pitted dates, chopped
3/4 cup boiling water
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toffee Sauce:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Soak the Dates: Place the chopped dates in a bowl, pour boiling water over them, and add the baking soda. Let the dates soak for about 10 minutes to soften. After soaking, mash them lightly with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Pudding Batter

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just combined. Fold in the softened dates, including any remaining liquid.

Step 3: Bake the Pudding

Pour into Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or divide it among ramekins for individual servings.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes (or about 20-25 minutes for ramekins) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pudding cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Toffee Sauce

Melt Butter and Sugar: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
Add Cream and Vanilla: Slowly stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened and smooth.

Step 5: Serve the Sticky Toffee Pudding

Pour the Sauce: Pour a generous amount of warm toffee sauce over the pudding, allowing it to soak in slightly. Reserve extra sauce for serving.
Serve Warm: Serve the pudding warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzling extra toffee sauce over the top.

Tips for the Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding

Use Fresh Dates: Fresh, soft dates create the best texture. Medjool dates work well due to their natural sweetness.
Don’t Overmix: When folding in the flour and dates, mix gently to keep the pudding light and fluffy.
Serve with Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is the perfect contrast to the warm, sticky pudding and toffee sauce.

Variations

Nutty Toffee Pudding: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty twist.
Spiced Toffee Pudding: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warm, spiced notes.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Add a pinch of sea salt to the toffee sauce for a sweet and salty flavor profile.

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a dessert that will delight guests and warm up any gathering with its sweet, comforting flavors. Perfect for winter nights or any special occasion, this traditional English treat is a must-try for dessert lovers!