In some places, sticky date pudding is also called sticky toffee. It’s a delicious dessert that combines dates, a moist, rich cake, and a buttery, warm toffee sauce. This indulgent dessert is popular in Australia. It’s the perfect way to end any meal during the cooler months. Sticky date pudding, a comforting classic dessert that will never go out of fashion, is served with generous amounts of caramel sauce along with vanilla ice-cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
What makes sticky date pudding special?
Sticky date pudding is made from chopped dates, which are softened with boiling water or coffee. The dates are then combined into a light cake batter, and baked until it becomes moist and fluffy. The sauce, a golden, luscious toffee, made with butter, brown sugar and cream, transforms the cake into something special. The sauce seeps through the sponge and gives it a rich caramelized flavour.
It’s easy to make sticky date pudding. The method is easy to follow, the ingredients are simple, and the end result is always stunning.
Ingredients
For pudding:
- Chop 1 cup (150g), pitted dried dates
- Baking soda, 1 tablespoon
- Boiling water in a cup (250ml).
- 60g (1/4 cup) softened unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150gm) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (185g) self-raising flour
- Salt pinch
Toffee sauce:
- Brown sugar, 1 cup (200g).
- 1 cup (250ml thickened cream)
- Unsalted Butter 100g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional for serving
- Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Making Sticky Date Pudding
Step 1: Relax the dates
Pour boiling water over the dates. Add the baking soda to the date mixture (it helps break down the dates). Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes. The dates will begin to soften, and they’ll become pulpy. It’s fine to leave some pieces. You can blend or mash the dates with a fork for a smoother texture.
Step 2: Prepare your batter
Cream together the butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer. The mixture should be light and fluffy. Add the eggs one by one, and beat well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.
Mix the flour, salt and liquid together, and then fold in the mixture of dates. Stir until well combined. The batter should be slightly thick, and flecked with dates.
Step 3: Bake your pudding
Pre-heat your oven to 180degC. Prepare individual ramekins or a 20cm square or round cake pan with grease and lining.
Pour the batter in the pan. Smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 mins, or until the skewer that is inserted in the middle comes out clean. Reduce the baking time if you are using ramekins to 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Toffee Sauce
Prepare the sauce while the pudding bakes. Over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and cream in a saucepan. Stir until mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer. Allow it to bubble for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes slightly thicker. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Serve
Let the pudding cool down a little after it comes out of the over. Pour some hot sauce on top of the cake before cutting it. Pour the hot toffee over each square of pudding, then add vanilla ice-cream or whipped cream.
Tips for making the best sticky date pudding
- For the best flavour and texture, use fresh dates: Medjool dates or soft pitted dates are ideal. Drier dates may need extra soaking time.
- Prepare ahead: You can make both the pudding and sauce ahead of time. The pudding should be stored in an airtight container, and the sauce should be kept in the refrigerator. Both should be reheated before serving.
- Do not overbake: Overbaking will dry out your pudding. Check the pudding a few minutes prior to the recommended baking time.
- Sticky Date Pudding freezes well: Wrap tightly and freeze up to two months. Reheat the food in a microwave or an oven.
Variations to Try
- Add nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter to add texture and flavor.
- Spiced Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger powder to the flour and you will have a spiced, warm pudding.
- Single-serve puddings: Create single-serve versions using muffin tins, ramekins or other ramekins. They are elegant and cook faster.
Final Thoughts
The sticky date pudding is a delicious dessert that brings people together. It’s a great dessert to serve at dinner parties, holidays, or as a family treat. The moist sponge, and the decadent sauce will impress everyone. This classic pudding is easy to prepare and will always satisfy. It deserves a permanent spot in your dessert repertoire. Don’t be surprised when your friends and family ask for it again after you have made it.