No products in the cart.
Classic Sticky Toffee Pudding
Save This Recipe!
Enter your email and we’ll send you this recipe so you can come back to it later! 😊
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment:
Mixing bowls
whisk
saucepan
pudding basin
steamer or large pot with lid
baking sheet
Cuisine Type: British
Classic Sticky Toffee Pudding is a beloved British dessert known for its rich flavor and comforting texture. This delectable treat features a moist sponge cake, made with finely chopped dates, which adds a natural sweetness and an incredibly soft texture.
The pudding is traditionally served warm, generously drizzled with a luscious toffee sauce that caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft sponge underneath. It’s often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of clotted cream, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
The origins of Sticky Toffee Pudding can be traced back to the Lake District in England, where it was first served in the early 20th century. Over the years, this indulgent pudding has gained popularity around the globe, becoming a staple on dessert menus.
Preparing this dessert at home is surprisingly simple, and the result is an impressive and satisfying dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or as a comforting weeknight treat, Sticky Toffee Pudding is sure to warm the heart and please the palate.
Ingredients:
- 200g pitted dates, chopped
- 250ml boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- For the Toffee Sauce:
- 200g brown sugar
- 100g unsalted butter
- 250ml double cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a pudding basin and line the bottom with parchment paper to guarantee easy removal after cooking. Prepare a steamer or a large pot with a lid for steaming the pudding.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped dates with the boiling water and baking soda. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, as it will soften the dates and create a rich flavor base.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which will help create a light sponge.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Gradually fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt into the butter mixture. Then, add the date mixture, including the water, and mix gently until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pudding basin.
- Cover the pudding basin with a piece of foil, securing it with kitchen twine or a rubber band. Place the basin in the steamer or pot and steam for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the pudding is steaming, prepare the toffee sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and double cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the pudding is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the basin and gently invert it onto a serving plate. Pour some warm toffee sauce over the top and serve the remaining sauce on the side.
Extra Tips:
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of dark rum or whiskey to the toffee sauce while it’s cooking. You can also experiment with different dried fruits, such as raisins or figs, instead of dates for a unique twist.
Serve your Sticky Toffee Pudding with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the sweetness of the dish.
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dessert!
