Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love comforting desserts that just wrap you in a warm hug, then you have to try this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe. This classic British treat brings together moist, tender cake studded with luscious dates, topped with a gloriously rich toffee sauce that is nothing short of irresistible. Each bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, making it a cherished favorite to enjoy any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role. From the naturally sweet, caramel-like dates to the light brown sugar which deepens the flavor and gives that iconic sticky texture, every component is essential for making this dessert truly shine.

• Medjool Dates (8 ounces, pitted): These plump, naturally sweet dates infuse the pudding with moistness and rich flavor.
• Water (1 cup): Used to soften the dates and create the base for the date puree.
• Unsalted Butter (1/3 cup softened plus 1 Tablespoon for greasing): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Light Brown Sugar (2/3 cup packed): Offers depth of flavor and the classic caramel notes sticky toffee pudding is known for.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Provides a warm, fragrant undertone that complements the dates.
• Eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and give the pudding structure.
• Molasses (2 Tablespoons): Boosts the toffee flavor with its rich, slightly smoky sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 2/3 cups): The base of the batter, giving the pudding its soft, cake-like texture.
• Baking Powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Helps the pudding rise and stay fluffy.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Reacts with the dates to tenderize and provide lightness.
• Salt (pinch): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (½ cup): Used in the luscious toffee sauce for creaminess.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup): For the toffee sauce, this creates that silky, glossy finish.
• Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup packed): Sweetens and thickens the toffee sauce perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the sauce.
• Salt (pinch): Enhances the toffee sauce, preventing it from being overly sweet.

How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ramekins

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing six ramekins with butter. This will ensure your puddings come out smoothly and bake evenly. Setting your foundation right is the key to baking success!

Step 2: Soften the Dates

Chop the pitted dates and add them to a small saucepan with water. Sprinkle baking soda on top—this little addition softens the dates beautifully. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and let them soak until nicely softened, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Puree the Date Mixture

Once the dates are soft, use an immersion blender right in the pan to puree them until smooth. This step creates the signature sticky texture and infuses the pudding with deep, luscious flavor. Don’t worry if you don’t have an immersion blender—a food processor works fine too, just a bit more cleanup.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This process traps air, ensuring your pudding is delightfully tender rather than dense.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings

Add eggs one at a time to the batter, beating well after each addition to keep the mixture smooth. Then, mix in the molasses and vanilla extract for that robust sticky toffee pudding flavor that everyone adores.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. Overmixing here can make the pudding tough, so keep it gentle!

Step 7: Fold in the Date Puree

Gently fold the pureed dates into your batter using a spatula or wooden spoon. This step adds the rich, sticky characteristic unique to this dessert and ensures an even texture throughout the pudding.

Step 8: Bake Your Puddings

Divide the batter evenly among the greased ramekins placed on a baking tray. Bake for about 18 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. These timer marks guide you to perfectly moist puddings every time.

Step 9: Cool and Unmold

Once baked, allow the puddings to cool slightly. Run a knife around the edges, then invert each ramekin onto a plate to release the pudding smoothly. Serving warm is best, as it pairs wonderfully with the hot toffee sauce.

Step 10: Prepare the Toffee Sauce and Serve

While the puddings bake, melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt over medium heat until glossy and smooth. Pour generously over your warm puddings for that iconic gooey finish you can’t resist.

How to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of indulgence, dust your Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or chopped toasted pecans. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level, adding a cool contrast to the warm, sticky sauce.

Side Dishes

This pudding is rich, so keep sides simple and complementary. A fresh fruit salad with tangy citrus or berries cuts through the sweetness beautifully. Or serve alongside a light cup of black coffee or strong tea to balance flavors and refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe in individual glasses layered with whipped cream or custard for a trifle-style dessert. Alternatively, bake the batter in a large dish and slice into squares for a homestyle presentation that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding actually benefits from sitting as the flavors meld, and reheats beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze these puddings individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their moist texture.

Reheating

Reheat your pudding gently in the microwave or oven until warm throughout. Pour fresh toffee sauce over after reheating to restore that just-made lusciousness. Avoid overheating to keep the pudding soft and tender.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates for this Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe?

Medjool dates are preferred due to their natural sweetness and soft texture, but you can substitute with other varieties like Deglet Noor if needed. Just soak them a bit longer to soften.

Is it necessary to use baking soda with the dates?

Yes, baking soda helps break down the dates during cooking, resulting in a smoother puree and lighter pudding texture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Can this dessert be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. You may need to adjust baking time slightly, but it works wonderfully.

How do I know when the pudding is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your pudding is perfectly baked. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before putting it in the oven for even baking.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving a dessert that’s deeply comforting, incredibly flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again to impress friends or simply treat yourself. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy every sticky, toffee-soaked bite!

Print