Warm Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm dessert, especially when it’s rich and decadent like warm sticky toffee pudding. If you’ve ever indulged in this classic British dessert, you know that the combination of moist sponge cake and a luscious toffee sauce creates an experience that’s truly heavenly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long day, this warm sticky toffee pudding recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Warm sticky toffee pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The pudding is soft and moist, while the toffee sauce is sweet and buttery, creating a delightful contrast. This recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of candied ginger for a unique twist. Each time you make it, you’ll find yourself savoring every last bite, and your friends and family will be begging for seconds!

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up this delicious treat, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (90g) demerara, or muscovado sugar, or another dark brown sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons golden syrup or molasses
• Pinch of salt
• 6 ounces (180g) pitted dates, snipped or chopped
• 1 cup (250ml) water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Optional: 1/3 cup (40g) candied ginger, chopped
• 1 1/4 cups (175g) flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Prep & Cook Tools

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk: To incorporate air into your mixture.
• Spatula: For folding ingredients together gently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
• 8-inch square baking dish: Perfect for the pudding.
• Saucepan: For making the toffee sauce.
• Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Cooking Warm Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe: The Process

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your warm sticky toffee pudding.

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, and baking soda. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the dates are soft. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Toffee Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, demerara or muscovado sugar, golden syrup, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Once combined, set aside a small amount of the sauce for drizzling later.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture. Gently fold until just combined. If you’re using candied ginger, fold that in too.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish and pour the pudding batter into it. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once baked, let the pudding cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of the toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some texture-safe substitutions:

• For heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• For dark brown sugar: Light brown sugar can work in a pinch, though the flavor may be milder.
• For unsalted butter: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free substitute.
• For eggs: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best cooks can encounter hiccups. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

• Pudding is too dense: Ensure you’re not overmixing the batter; fold gently to maintain airiness.
• Toffee sauce is too thin: Allow it to simmer longer to thicken, or add a bit more sugar.
• Pudding is dry: Make sure to monitor baking time closely; every oven is different!
• Dates not blending well: Soak the dates longer if needed to soften them properly.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This warm sticky toffee pudding can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prep:

You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking. The toffee sauce can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat. The baked pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use different types of sugar for this recipe?

Absolutely! While demerara or muscovado sugar gives the best flavor, you can substitute with light brown sugar or even granulated sugar, though the taste and texture may vary slightly.

Is sticky toffee pudding best served warm?

Yes! This dessert is best enjoyed warm, as the sauce seeps into the pudding, enhancing its moisture and flavor. A little heat brings out the richness of the toffee sauce too!

Can I freeze sticky toffee pudding?

Yes! You can freeze the baked pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

What can I serve with sticky toffee pudding?

It’s delicious on its own, but serving it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra toffee sauce elevates the experience even further!

Bring It Home

Now that you have the ultimate warm sticky toffee pudding recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. The heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen will be just the beginning of your culinary adventure. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, this pudding is destined to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Imagine serving this delightful treat to guests, or enjoying it on a quiet evening at home with a cup of tea. Each bite will remind you of cozy evenings and sweet memories. So go ahead, indulge a little—life is too short not to enjoy delicious desserts!