Save to Pinterest A cozy, rustic dessert with a deep caramel flavor, luscious dates, and a rich toffee sauce — perfect for fireside gatherings or indulgent cabin weekends.
This dessert has become a favorite during our cabin trips, filling the air with warm sweet aromas and bringing everyone together around the fire.
Ingredients
- For the Pudding: 225 g (1 1/2 cups) pitted Medjool dates, chopped, 250 ml (1 cup) boiling water, 1 tsp baking soda, 85 g (6 tbsp) unsalted butter softened, 175 g (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) dark brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 200 g (1 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- For the Sticky Toffee Sauce: 200 g (1 cup) dark brown sugar, 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream, 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, 1 tbsp black treacle or molasses (optional for depth), Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a 23 cm (9-inch) square or round baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Place chopped dates in a bowl. Pour over boiling water and sprinkle with baking soda. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Step 4:
- Mash the softened dates (with liquid) lightly with a fork, then fold into the batter.
- Step 5:
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Step 6:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7:
- While the pudding bakes, make the sauce Combine brown sugar, cream, butter, treacle (if using), and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened (about 5 to 7 minutes).
- Step 8:
- Once the pudding is done, poke holes all over the surface with a skewer. Pour about half of the hot toffee sauce over the pudding. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Serve warm, cut into squares, with extra toffee sauce drizzled over each portion. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this pudding at the cabin has become a treasured family tradition, sparking stories and laughter late into the evening.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or sturdy whisk, 23 cm (9-inch) baking dish, saucepan, wooden spoon or silicon spatula, skewer or toothpick
Allergen Information
Contains Gluten (wheat flour) Eggs Dairy (butter cream). May contain traces of nuts if substituting or as processed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 470 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 67 g Protein 4 g per serving
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This sticky toffee pudding brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion, making it a perfect dessert for your next cozy gathering.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of dates work best?
Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and natural sweetness, which blend smoothly into the batter.
- → Can I add a smoky flavor to the toffee sauce?
Yes, adding a pinch of smoked sea salt to the sauce enhances its depth and complements the caramel notes.
- → How do I ensure the pudding is moist and tender?
Soaking the chopped dates in boiling water with baking soda softens them, helping create a moist, tender texture.
- → What baking dish should I use?
A 23 cm (9-inch) square or round baking dish works well for even cooking and portioning.
- → Are there toppings to enhance serving?
Serving warm pudding with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the intense toffee flavor.
- → Can nuts be incorporated for texture?
Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for a nutty crunch, complementing the soft pudding and sauce.