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 always reminds me of chilly evenings spent by the fire, sharing laughs and warmth with loved ones.
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 My family loves gathering around the table for this pudding, sharing stories and enjoying the comforting flavors together.
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 (per serving)
Calories 470, Total Fat 21 g, Carbohydrates 67 g, Protein 4 g
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This classic dessert always brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I soften the dates for this dish?
Chop the dates and soak them in boiling water with baking soda for about 10 minutes to soften and enhance their texture.
- → Can I add nuts to the toffee base?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the batter to add a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.
- → What is the best way to make the caramel sauce silky?
Simmer the brown sugar, cream, butter, and a pinch of salt gently over medium heat while stirring to achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
- → Can I use an alternative to black treacle in the sauce?
Black treacle adds depth and is optional. Molasses can be used as a substitute to maintain the rich, complex flavor.
- → How can I serve this dessert for a special touch?
Serve warm toffee squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweetness and add creaminess.