The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe: A Timeless Dessert Everyone Loves
There’s something almost magical about sitting down to a warm slice of Sticky Toffee Pudding on a chilly evening. Its moist, rich sponge paired with the golden, buttery toffee sauce creates a dessert that feels like a comforting hug. It’s the kind of recipe that transports you straight into a cozy English cottage, fireplace crackling in the background.
Sticky toffee pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience — one filled with nostalgia, tradition, and utter indulgence. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, this classic British dessert is guaranteed to make everyone around the table smile.
Recipe Snapshot (Quick Facts)
| Category | Details |
| Yield | 8 servings |
| Serving Size | 1 slice |
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Calories per Serving | ~430 calories |
| Primary Cooking Method | Baking |
| Cooling Time | 10 minutes |
| Occasion | Holidays, Family Gatherings |
| Diet Type | Vegetarian |
Calories are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
Course: DessertsCuisine: BritishDifficulty: EasyServings
8
servingsPrep Time
25
minutesCooking Time
35
minutesCalories
430
kcalThis section will give you a brief idea of what Sticky Toffee Pudding is and why it has become a beloved dessert across the world.
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert made of a moist sponge cake stuffed with finely chopped dates, topped with a rich toffee sauce, and usually served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. It’s known for its sweet, buttery flavor and tender, sticky texture that melts beautifully in your mouth.
Ingredients List
- For the Pudding:
1 1/4 cups (200g) chopped pitted dates
1 cup (240ml) boiling water
1 teaspoon baking soda
6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Toffee Sauce:
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200g) brown sugar
3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-By-Step Guide to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Prepare the Dates and Batter
Start by soaking the chopped dates in boiling water along with the baking soda. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the dates soften. Meanwhile, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. - Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Stir in the softened date mixture and vanilla extract. The batter will be thick but luscious. - Bake the Pudding
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish. Pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly while you prepare the sauce. - Make the Toffee Sauce
The sauce is where the magic happens. Here’s how to whip it up quickly and perfectly.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cream. Bring to a simmer and let it bubble gently for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly. Once thickened slightly, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. - Assemble and Serve
Bringing everything together is the final and most rewarding step.
Poke holes all over the warm pudding with a fork or skewer. Pour half of the hot toffee sauce over the pudding, letting it soak in. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with extra sauce drizzled on top, and optionally add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Bake the pudding up to 2 days ahead and store it covered at room temperature.
- Make the toffee sauce and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before serving.
- Assemble the dish just before serving by warming both the cake and sauce.
Equipment Needed
Having the right tools on hand will make preparing Sticky Toffee Pudding much easier and more enjoyable.
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
Substitutions and Variations
Not everyone eats the same way. Here are easy ways to adapt Sticky Toffee Pudding to different dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Vegan: Replace butter with vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Nutty Version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for extra crunch.
No Dates: You can substitute dates with prunes or figs, although dates are traditional.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s the best way to keep them tasting great.
- Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 20-second bursts, or reheat covered in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Extra Tips for the Best Sticky Toffee Pudding
Master your Sticky Toffee Pudding with these extra insider tips that can make a real difference.
- Use Fresh Dates: Fresh Medjool dates give the best soft, caramel-like flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a tough cake.
- Poke Holes: Poking holes helps the sauce soak deep into the pudding.
- Serve Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed warm for the ultimate gooeyness.
A Sweet History: Where Sticky Toffee Pudding Comes From
Every classic recipe has a story, and Sticky Toffee Pudding is no exception. Let’s explore its charming origins.
Sticky Toffee Pudding has roots in England, with many claiming it originated in the Lake District. Some stories suggest it was inspired by Canadian soldiers who shared their date cake recipes with British chefs during WWII. Regardless of its exact origin, one thing is certain: this dessert has become a beloved staple in homes and restaurants across the UK and beyond.
FAQ Section
Got questions? Here are the answers to some common Sticky Toffee Pudding queries.
Q: Can I freeze sticky toffee pudding?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Q: Why did my pudding sink in the middle?
Overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early can cause sinking.
Q: Can I make mini puddings instead of one large?
Absolutely! Bake in individual ramekins, adjusting the baking time to around 18-22 minutes.
Q: Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the sauce?
Yes, heavy cream gives the sauce its rich and luscious texture. Milk would make it too thin.
Food Safety Notes
Always follow safe baking practices to ensure your dessert is not only delicious but safe to eat.
- Always check that your cake reaches an internal temperature of at least 200°F (93°C) to ensure it’s fully baked.
- Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to prevent spoilage.
How to Choose the Best Dates
The quality of your dates can make or break your Sticky Toffee Pudding. Here’s what to look for.
- Look for Medjool dates that are soft, moist, and plump.
- Avoid dates that are overly dry or shriveled.
- Remove pits carefully to avoid blending hard pieces into your batter.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Sticky Toffee Pudding with these simple but delightful serving ideas.
Sticky Toffee Pudding pairs beautifully with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A generous dollop of whipped cream
- A drizzle of extra toffee sauce
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt for contrast
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Here is an approximate breakdown of nutritional facts per serving.
- Calories: 430
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Sugar: 46g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
(*Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.)
Why We Love Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky Toffee Pudding embodies everything we love about comfort food: rich flavors, nostalgic memories, and heartwarming textures.
It’s the kind of dessert that makes even an ordinary night feel special. Whether shared with family over the holidays or enjoyed solo by the fire, it’s a little piece of joy you can bake anytime.
Final Words
If you’ve never tried Sticky Toffee Pudding before, this is your sign to start! With its simple ingredients, straightforward process, and mouthwatering results, it’s one dessert that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Warm, buttery, and dripping with luscious toffee sauce — what’s not to love?
Go ahead, preheat that oven, and prepare yourself for a seriously unforgettable dessert!
