Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate dessert for creating warm, cozy moments. Its rich, caramelized flavors and moist texture make it a standout choice for family gatherings, festive occasions, or even a quiet evening indulgence. Paired with a velvety butterscotch sauce, this classic treat embodies comfort and decadence in every bite.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Dates are the star ingredient in this pudding, lending natural sweetness and a unique depth of flavor. Brown sugar, with its caramel undertones, enhances the richness, while baking soda ensures the dates break down into a smooth mixture. Butter adds a tender crumb, and eggs provide structure to the batter.
For the butterscotch sauce, heavy cream creates the luscious base, while tightly packed brown sugar delivers a deep caramelized sweetness. Butter enriches the texture, and a splash of vanilla extract adds a fragrant touch.

For substitutions, Medjool dates are ideal for their softness and sweetness, but Deglet Noor dates work well too. Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free version, while maple syrup or dark molasses can be used to adjust the flavor profile of the sauce.

Instructions for Preparing Sticky Toffee Pudding

Soaking the chopped dates in boiling water with a sprinkle of baking soda is a crucial first step. This softens the dates, making them easier to mash into a porridge-like consistency. The mixture becomes the pudding’s base, ensuring moistness and sweetness in every bite.

For the batter, creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy creates a smooth foundation. Adding the eggs one at a time ensures the batter remains airy and well-mixed. The dry ingredients, including flour and baking powder, are incorporated gently to maintain the pudding’s light texture. Finally, folding in the date mixture evenly throughout the batter ensures consistent flavor and moisture.

Baking the pudding requires attention to detail. For a single pudding, the batter is poured into a prepared square pan and baked until a skewer comes out clean. While still warm, poking holes into the pudding and pouring butterscotch sauce over the top allows the dessert to soak up every bit of the rich caramel goodness.

For individual puddings, divide the batter into greased moulds, filling them two-thirds of the way. These bake faster than the larger pudding and offer a charming presentation. Once baked, the puddings are soaked with sauce and carefully turned out onto plates for serving.

Crafting the Butterscotch Sauce

Creating the butterscotch sauce is a straightforward process with delightful results. Combining cream, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan and simmering gently ensures a silky, smooth texture. Stirring occasionally prevents scorching and allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

For an elevated twist, a splash of dark rum or a sprinkle of sea salt can be added to the sauce. These small adjustments can transform the already luxurious sauce into a gourmet delight.

Recipe Tips

Ensuring Moist Pudding:
Do not overmix the batter, as it can make the pudding dense. Baking at the right temperature is essential for even cooking.

Serving Warm:
Sticky Toffee Pudding is best enjoyed warm to fully appreciate its rich flavors and gooey sauce.

Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the microwave or oven. Store the sauce separately for the best results.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair Sticky Toffee Pudding with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to balance its rich sweetness. Extra butterscotch sauce drizzled on top adds an indulgent touch.

To elevate the experience further, serve the pudding alongside a cup of robust coffee, spiced chai tea, or a dessert wine like a sweet sherry or port. These beverages complement the pudding’s deep caramel and toffee notes beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

What is the Best Type of Dates to Use?
Medjool dates are ideal due to their natural sweetness and soft texture, but Deglet Noor dates are a good alternative.

Can I Freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding?
Absolutely. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a dessert that brings people together, evoking comfort and indulgence with its rich flavors and velvety texture. Whether served for a special occasion or as a treat to end a cozy dinner, this timeless pudding never fails to impress. Its perfect balance of sweetness and warmth ensures it will remain a favorite for years to come.

Ingredients

Pudding:

1 1/4 cups plain flour (all-purpose flour)
280g / 9 oz pitted dates, roughly chopped (Note 1)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
1/4 cup brown sugar, loosely packed
80g / 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs, at room temperature
1 cup boiling water

Butterscotch Sauce:

1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
1 1/2 cups thickened cream (heavy cream)
70g / 5 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Serving:

Ice cream or dolloping cream

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C / 350°F (160°C fan-forced). Prepare your baking equipment: grease seven pudding moulds thoroughly or, alternatively, grease and line a 20 cm / 8-inch square cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.

Prepare the Dates: Place the chopped dates in a heatproof bowl and sprinkle them with baking soda. Pour over the boiling water, letting the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the softened dates into a porridge-like consistency. This mixture should be thick and slightly sloppy (refer to Note 3).

Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well to incorporate. Sift in the flour and evenly sprinkle the baking powder over the top. Stir until just combined. Finally, fold the prepared date mixture into the batter, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

For a Single Pudding: Pour the batter into the prepared square cake pan, smoothing the surface evenly. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. While the pudding is still warm, use a skewer to poke about 40 small holes across the surface. Drizzle 1/2 cup of warm Butterscotch Sauce over the pudding and allow it to soak for 10 minutes. Lift the pudding out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, cut into portions, and serve warm with additional Butterscotch Sauce and a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream.

For Individual Puddings: Divide the batter evenly between the pudding moulds, filling each to two-thirds of its capacity. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. While the puddings are still hot, poke approximately 10 holes in each and spoon over 1 tablespoon of Butterscotch Sauce per pudding. Let them soak for 10 minutes. Turn the moulds upside down onto serving plates, releasing the puddings. Serve warm with the remaining Butterscotch Sauce, paired with ice cream or cream.

Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, stir the mixture thoroughly. Bring it to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2 minutes while stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and serve the sauce warm over the puddings.
Enjoy the warm, rich flavors of this classic Sticky Toffee Pudding, perfect for a comforting dessert experience.