Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Decadent Delight

Name: Sticky Toffee Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and chopped; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup boiling water (for soaking dates); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 tbsp unsalted butter

Published: November 21, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This sticky toffee pudding recipe is so easy, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.
The rich flavors of dates and butterscotch create an irresistible combination that’s impossible to resist.
Visually appealing with its glossy sauce and fluffy texture, this dessert will impress anyone who lays eyes on it.
Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, it’s versatile enough to serve warm or chilled.

Ingredients for sticky toffee pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Medjool Dates: These sweet gems are key players in this recipe, lending moisture and flavor. Look for plump ones without any signs of drying out.
All-Purpose Flour: This basic ingredient forms the backbone of your pudding. Sift it well for a light and airy texture.
Baking Soda: A must-have leavening agent that gives the pudding its delightful rise. Make sure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness.
Unsalted Butter: Richness is essential here! Softened butter adds moisture and flavor; just don’t forget to save some for greasing the pan.
Brown Sugar: The darker, the better! This adds depth and a caramel-like sweetness that complements the dates beautifully.
Eggs: Essential for binding everything together, eggs also help achieve that tender texture we all love.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this aromatic liquid enhances the overall flavor profile—don’t skimp on it!
Heavy Cream: For serving! Drizzle over your warm pudding to elevate it from great to truly spectacular.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make sticky toffee pudding

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dates

Start by pitting and chopping the Medjool dates into small pieces. In a bowl, cover them with boiling water and let them soak for about 10 minutes while you gather other ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your pudding slides right out after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until combined. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about two minutes should do it! Then beat in the eggs one at a time before adding vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just combined. Fold in those lovely soaked dates along with their soaking water—it’ll add moisture!

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or slightly sticky—because hey, it’s sticky toffee pudding!).

Transfer to plates and drizzle with heavy cream for that perfect finishing touch.

Now that you’ve mastered this iconic dessert recipe, get ready for some serious indulging! Each bite promises warmth wrapped in sweetness that feels like home—perfect for any occasion or simply because you deserve it!

You Must Know

Sticky toffee pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in a bowl.
This delightful treat combines moist sponge cake with a sweet toffee sauce that will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Perfect for any occasion, it brings warmth and joy to the table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the sticky toffee sauce first so it has time to cool. While that’s simmering, mix your cake batter and bake it until golden brown. Drizzle the warm sauce over the baked pudding for that gooey finish everyone craves.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap dates with figs or raisins if you want to mix it up. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast or serve with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sticky toffee pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, adding a splash of milk if needed for moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect sticky toffee pudding, ensure your dates are finely chopped for even distribution.
Avoid overbaking the pudding; it should be moist and not dry.
Lastly, let the sauce cool slightly before drizzling—it will stick better!

Sharing sticky toffee pudding with friends at my last dinner party was magical; their delighted faces were priceless as they took their first bites—pure bliss captured in one dessert!

FAQs

What is sticky toffee pudding?

Sticky toffee pudding is a classic British dessert made from a moist sponge cake, traditionally flavored with dates and drenched in a rich toffee sauce. It’s often served warm with vanilla ice cream or custard. The combination of the sweet, sticky sauce and the soft cake creates a delightful experience for dessert lovers.

How do I store leftover sticky toffee pudding?

To store leftover sticky toffee pudding, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which can last for about two months.

Can I make sticky toffee pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! Sticky toffee pudding can be prepared a day in advance. Just bake the sponge cake and allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the pudding in the oven or microwave, then pour over the warmed toffee sauce right before serving for that deliciously gooey effect.

What variations can I try with sticky toffee pudding?

You can experiment with various flavorings and ingredients in your sticky toffee pudding. Consider adding orange zest for a citrusy twist or using different dried fruits like apricots or figs instead of dates. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the finished dish. These variations can elevate your traditional recipe and surprise your guests!

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for sticky toffee pudding

Sticky toffee pudding is not just a dessert; it’s an indulgent treat that captivates the taste buds. From its rich flavors to its comforting texture, this classic British dish brings joy with every bite. Remember that you can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time for convenience. With endless variations at your fingertips, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it uniquely yours every time you prepare it!

0 Shares