Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. This classic British treat features a moist cake made from dates, soaked in a rich caramel sauce, and topped with whipped cream. Perfect for cozy evenings, festive gatherings, or simply when you want to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes Sticky Toffee Pudding a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this indulgent dessert.
• Decadent Flavor: The rich caramel sauce combined with the sweet date cake creates an irresistible taste that leaves you craving more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm with whipped cream, or pair it with ice cream for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday celebration, this pudding will be the star of your dessert table.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the pudding in advance and reheat it for an easy dessert option.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need for making Sticky Toffee Pudding.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 11 x 8-inch glass or oven-safe casserole dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps blend ingredients quickly, ensuring a smooth batter without much effort.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for melting butter and preparing your caramel sauce evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your ingredients organized while preparing the pudding.

Ingredients

The easiest cake-style pudding soaked and drizzled with a warmed caramel sauce, then served with a dollop of whipped cream…

For the Cake

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 cup homogenized milk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Sea salt flakes

For the Salty Caramel Sauce

• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup 35% cream
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

To Serve

• Whipped cream

How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with the rack positioned in the middle. Lightly butter an 11 x 8-inch glass or oven-safe casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare Dates

Place chopped dates in a small bowl and sprinkle them with baking soda. Scald the homogenized milk in a small saucepan over moderate-high heat. Pour this hot milk onto the dates, stir well, and set aside to cool for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Cake Batter

In another bowl, mix together unbleached all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In your food processor fitted with a blade attachment, combine beaten eggs, dark brown sugar, softened butter, and pure vanilla extract. Run on low speed until mixed.

Add dry ingredients one tablespoon at a time through the feed tube while running on low speed. After combining, remove the lid and add the soaked dates along with their liquid. Replace the lid and run on slightly faster speed to achieve a smooth batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared casserole dish and smooth it out evenly. Transfer it to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the center is set and edges are slightly golden.

Step 5: Prepare Salty Caramel Sauce While Baking

In a small saucepan over moderate-high heat, melt butter. Stir in both brown sugar and kosher salt. Keep stirring until sugar dissolves into butter completely. Add in heavy cream while stirring consistently until bubbling begins; reduce heat to simmer. Cook for around 10 minutes until thickened but stir occasionally.

Step 6: Soak Cake with Sauce

Once baked, remove cake from oven. Use a brochette or fork to poke holes in its surface. Slowly pour about one-third of your Salty Caramel Sauce onto the cake ensuring coverage across its surface.

Step 7: Let It Settle

Allow your pudding to sit for about 15 minutes so it can soak up that delicious caramel flavor.

Step 8: Serve Your Pudding

Sprinkle sea salt flakes over top of cake portions before serving. Cut into twelve pieces or spoon out servings into bowls or plates. Drizzle each portion generously with more Salty Caramel Sauce before adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy warm!

With this guide on how to make Sticky Toffee Pudding, you’re ready to impress friends and family alike!

How to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it warm, drizzled with rich caramel sauce, is a classic approach, but there are many other creative ideas to enhance your experience.

Classic with Whipped Cream

• A generous dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and balances the sweetness of the pudding.

Ice Cream Indulgence

• Pair your Sticky Toffee Pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich and creamy contrast that melts into the warm cake.

With Fresh Fruits

• Serve alongside fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas to add a refreshing touch and mild acidity that complements the sweetness.

Drizzle with Extra Caramel

• For caramel lovers, an additional drizzle of the warm Salty Caramel Sauce on top intensifies the flavor experience.

Nuts for Crunch

• Sprinkling chopped toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness to each bite.

Make it Festive

• Top your Sticky Toffee Pudding with festive garnishes like seasonal spices or edible flowers to elevate its presentation for special occasions.

How to Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding

To ensure your Sticky Toffee Pudding turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Dates: Fresh dates yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid dried dates as they can be too tough.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.
• Soak Dates Well: Allow enough time for the dates to soak in milk; this softens them and enhances their flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a light texture.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the pudding is done baking.
• Serve Warm: Sticky Toffee Pudding is best served warm right out of the oven for optimal texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Toffee Pudding

While Sticky Toffee Pudding is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries offers a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with sweetness.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream complements the pudding’s richness while adding a cool element.
3. Custard Sauce: A warm custard brings extra creaminess and depth of flavor to each serving of pudding.
4. Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, drizzling chocolate sauce over your pudding adds another layer of indulgence.
5. Caramelized Apples: Sweet caramelized apples provide a fruity note and add warmth to every bite.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts give crunchy texture and balance out the soft pudding’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a beloved dessert, but making it can come with challenges. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale dates: Fresh dates are essential for the best flavor and texture. Ensure your dates are soft and moist before using them in the recipe.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to avoid altering the texture of your pudding.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense pudding. Mix just until combined for a lighter, fluffier dessert.
• Skipping the soaking time: Allowing the cake to soak in the caramel sauce enhances the flavor. Don’t rush this step; give it at least 15 minutes.
• Not checking for doneness: Ovens vary, so check your pudding a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sticky Toffee Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover Salty Caramel Sauce in a separate container in the fridge, sealed tightly.

Freezing Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place portions on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place pudding slices in a skillet over low heat. Cover and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Sticky Toffee Pudding that can help enhance your baking experience.

What is Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a moist cake made with dates, drenched in a rich caramel sauce, often served with cream or ice cream.

Can I make Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for the best experience.

How do I customize my Sticky Toffee Pudding?

You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter or try different toppings like caramel sauce or ice cream for variety.

Is there a gluten-free version of Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

What should I serve with Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even custard pairs wonderfully with this dessert, enhancing its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Toffee Pudding is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. Whether you enjoy it warm as a comforting treat or cold as leftovers, its rich flavors make it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!

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Sticky Toffee Pudding

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Sticky Toffee Pudding, a classic British dessert that combines a moist date cake drizzled with rich caramel sauce. This comforting treat is perfect for cozy evenings or festive celebrations, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With its decadent flavor profile and luscious texture, this pudding is sure to impress both family and guests alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 cup homogenized milk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Sea salt flakes
• ½ cup butter (for the caramel sauce)
• 1 cup brown sugar (for the caramel sauce)
• ½ cup 35% cream (for the caramel sauce)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for the caramel sauce)
• Whipped cream to serve

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter an oven-safe dish.
2. Soak chopped dates in hot milk mixed with baking soda for about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the batter by mixing dry ingredients and blending soaked dates into a smooth mixture.
4. Bake for approximately 30 minutes until set and golden.
5. While baking, create the salty caramel sauce by melting butter, stirring in sugar, then adding cream until thickened.
6. After baking, poke holes in the cake and pour a portion of the warm caramel sauce over it. Let it soak for about 15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 85mg