Sticky Toffee Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Introduction

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert that is beloved for its rich, moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, served with a decadent, buttery caramel sauce. This dessert is indulgent yet comforting, with a luscious combination of tender cake and sticky, sweet sauce that melts in your mouth.

Perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings, sticky toffee pudding combines the warmth of caramel flavors with the subtle sweetness and depth of dates. The caramel sauce seeps into the sponge, making every bite rich, velvety, and utterly satisfying. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious but is surprisingly approachable to make at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The sponge is moist and tender thanks to the dates, while the caramel sauce is silky, buttery, and sweet without being overwhelming. The aroma while baking is intoxicating, filling your kitchen with the scent of caramel, vanilla, and warm sponge. It’s a dessert that brings comfort, elegance, and nostalgia all in one.

Sticky toffee pudding is versatile—you can serve it as a casual treat or plate it elegantly with ice cream or whipped cream for a dinner party. The combination of sticky sweetness and warm cake makes it irresistible for both kids and adults alike.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic British indulgence: A traditional dessert loved worldwide.
• Rich and comforting: Perfect for fall, winter, or any cozy occasion.
• Moist and flavorful sponge: Dates add depth and natural sweetness.
• Decadent sauce: Buttery caramel sauce elevates the dessert to luxurious levels.
• Versatile serving options: Serve warm with ice cream, cream, or custard.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Caramel Sauce Preparation: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~420 kcal
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: British / European

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 1 cup (175 g) pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Preheat the oven
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
2. Prepare the dates
   • Place chopped dates and baking soda in a bowl.
   • Pour boiling water over dates, stir, and let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
3. Make the batter
   • In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in vanilla extract.
   • Gradually fold in flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Stir in the softened dates with their soaking liquid until fully combined.
4. Bake the pudding
   • Pour batter into prepared baking dish or ramekins.
   • Bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Prepare the caramel sauce
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
   • Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
   • Pour in cream, whisking until smooth and thickened.
   • Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
6. Serve
   • Pour warm caramel sauce over the pudding.
   • Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard.

How to Serve

• Serve warm for maximum indulgence.
• Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Optionally, garnish with toasted nuts for extra texture.

Recipe Tips

• Chop dates finely for a smoother texture in the sponge.
• Ensure butter is softened for easier creaming with sugar.
• For deeper flavor, lightly toast dates before soaking.
• Use full-fat cream in the caramel for a richer sauce.
• Individual ramekins can be used for elegant single servings.

Variations

• Sticky Toffee Pudding with Rum: Add 1–2 tbsp dark rum to the caramel sauce.
• Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
• Chocolate Caramel: Stir in 2 tbsp cocoa powder into the caramel sauce.
• Mini Puddings: Bake in individual ramekins for portion control and presentation.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy cream, and flax eggs.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store pudding and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked pudding (without sauce) for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator and warm before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven or microwave, then pour over freshly prepared caramel sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking dish or individual ramekins
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan for caramel sauce
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spoon or spatula for folding

FAQ

Q: Can I make the pudding ahead of time?
Yes, bake the pudding ahead and store separately from the caramel. Warm before serving.

Q: Can I use dates from a jar?
Yes, just drain and chop them finely.

Q: How do I prevent the caramel from separating?
Whisk continuously while adding cream and remove from heat once smooth and thickened.

Q: Can this dessert be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Caramel Sauce is a classic, indulgent dessert that combines moist, date-studded sponge with a rich, buttery caramel sauce. Its comforting flavors and luxurious texture make it perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or cozy nights at home. Easy to make yet impressive in presentation, this pudding is a must-try dessert for anyone who loves classic British sweets.