Classic Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe | Rich, Moist & Irresistible
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert that’s beloved for its rich, moist sponge cake and indulgent toffee sauce. This dessert is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and satisfying. With its deep caramel flavors and tender texture, it’s no wonder this pudding has become a favorite worldwide. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this decadent dessert from scratch, including tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s get started!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make this dessert, you’ll need the following equipment:
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Saucepan (for the toffee sauce)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup (150g) pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Toffee Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How to Make Easy Sticky Toffee Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
- In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Blend the date mixture in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pudding Batter
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and 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, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the date puree. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Make the Toffee Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Poke holes all over the baked pudding with a skewer. Pour half of the toffee sauce over the pudding, allowing it to soak in.
- Serve warm, topped with the remaining toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
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Classic Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe | Rich, Moist & Irresistible
Description
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert that’s beloved for its rich, moist sponge cake and indulgent toffee sauce. This dessert is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and satisfying. With its deep caramel flavors and tender texture, it’s no wonder this pudding has become a favorite worldwide. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this decadent dessert from scratch, including tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
For the Pudding:
-
1 cup (150g) pitted dates, chopped
-
1 cup (240ml) boiling water
-
1 tsp baking soda
-
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
-
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
1/4 tsp salt
For the Toffee Sauce:
-
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
-
1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
-
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
Pinch of salt
For Serving (Optional):
-
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Instructions
How to Make Easy Sticky Toffee Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
-
In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and let sit for 10 minutes.
-
Blend the date mixture in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pudding Batter
-
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and 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, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the date puree. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Pudding
-
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
-
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Make the Toffee Sauce
-
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
-
Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
-
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
-
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
-
Poke holes all over the baked pudding with a skewer. Pour half of the toffee sauce over the pudding, allowing it to soak in.
-
Serve warm, topped with the remaining toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Variations
- Nutty Version: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Twist: Stir 1/2 cup chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and heavy cream with coconut cream.
Cooking Notes
- For the best flavor, use Medjool dates—they’re naturally sweeter and softer.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the pudding dense.
- If the toffee sauce is too thick, add a splash of cream to thin it out.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
- Enjoy as a special treat during the holidays or on cozy nights.
Helpful Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- To freeze, wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Make the toffee sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
Tips for the Best Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Use fresh, high-quality dates for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the baking soda—it helps soften the dates and lighten the pudding.
- Let the pudding soak in the toffee sauce for at least 10 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Serves 8)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sugar for the toffee sauce?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but brown sugar adds a deeper caramel flavor.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the pudding and make the sauce a day in advance. Reheat before serving.
3. What can I use instead of dates?
You can use raisins or prunes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Conclusion
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, date-filled sponge and rich toffee sauce, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or enjoying it as a cozy dessert, this recipe is easy to make and always delivers delicious results. Try it today and indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade Sticky Toffee Pudding!