Sticky Toffee Pudding is a beloved British dessert known for its rich, moist sponge and indulgent toffee sauce. Making this classic treat at home involves a few simple ingredients and steps, but the results are absolutely worth it. Here’s how you can make a traditional Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 200g (7 oz) pitted dates, chopped
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 240ml (1 cup) boiling water
- 115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 180g (1 1/2 cups) self-raising flour
- A pinch of salt
For the Toffee Sauce:
- 200g (1 cup) light brown sugar
- 250ml (1 cup) double cream
- 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start by placing the chopped dates into a heatproof bowl and adding the baking soda. Pour the boiling water over the dates and stir well. Allow this mixture to sit for around 10-15 minutes until the dates soften and absorb the water, creating a thick, slightly sticky consistency. Once the dates have softened, mash them lightly with a fork or potato masher. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Batter
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (around 20 cm x 20 cm) or individual ramekins with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually fold in the self-raising flour and salt, mixing until the batter is smooth. Then, gently fold in the date mixture until fully combined. The batter will be thick, but the moisture from the dates will help ensure the pudding is soft and tender once baked.
Step 3: Bake the Pudding
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. The pudding should have risen and be golden brown on top.
Allow the pudding to cool in the dish for a few minutes, then turn it out onto a serving plate if using a larger dish, or simply serve directly from individual ramekins.
Step 4: Make the Toffee Sauce
While the pudding is baking, it’s time to prepare the indulgent toffee sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the light brown sugar, double cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously as the mixture melts together. Bring it to a gentle simmer, making sure to keep stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s reached a smooth, pourable consistency, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Serve
Once the pudding has cooled slightly but is still warm, cut it into squares or serve individual portions. Generously pour the warm toffee sauce over the top, ensuring every bite is drenched in that rich, sticky goodness. For an extra touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding:
- Quality Dates: Use soft, moist dates for the best texture. Medjool dates are a great option because of their sweetness and softness.
- Self-Raising Flour: Self-raising flour is key to getting the pudding to rise properly. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
- Make Ahead: Sticky Toffee Pudding actually tastes better the next day! The flavors meld together, and it reheats wonderfully in the microwave or oven. Make it a day ahead for an easy dessert option.
- Extra Sauce: You can never have too much toffee sauce! Make extra and serve it on the side for those who love a bit of extra sweetness.
- Texture: If you prefer your pudding to be even more moist, you can drizzle some extra warm toffee sauce over it just before serving.
Conclusion
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a quintessential British dessert that is simple to make but incredibly delicious. The combination of a moist sponge and luscious toffee sauce makes it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether served with vanilla ice cream or fresh cream, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this sweet, comforting dessert that has become a classic in British cuisine!