Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Comforting Classic

Sticky Toffee Pudding

There’s something utterly magical about a warm, gooey Sticky Toffee Pudding that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

This classic dessert combines a moist sponge cake made with sweet dates and a rich, buttery toffee sauce that seeps into every crevice.

Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert is the epitome of indulgence.

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Prep the dates
Chop the dates into small pieces, then pour boiling water over them in a bowl. Stir in baking soda and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. The dates will soften and the liquid will take on a rich, caramel-like color, perfect for blending into the batter.

Cream butter and sugar
Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This step ensures the pudding has an airy yet moist texture.

Add eggs and dry ingredients
Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the bowl and gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The batter will be thick and smooth, with a warm golden hue.

Incorporate the date mixture
Once the dates have softened, mash them lightly with a fork, then stir them into the batter. This step adds a natural sweetness and subtle chunks for texture in the pudding.

Pour and bake
Transfer the batter into a greased ceramic baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown, springy to the touch, and slightly cracked, about 30–35 minutes.

Make the toffee sauce
Combine butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture bubbles gently, thickens, and develops a deep golden hue. This glossy sauce is the soul of the pudding.

Serve
Poke small holes in the pudding with a skewer and pour warm toffee sauce generously over the top, allowing it to seep in. Slice and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Pro Tips

• Soak those dates! Let the chopped dates sit in boiling water for at least 10 minutes to soften, making them easier to blend into the batter.
• Don’t skimp on the toffee sauce. Make extra—you’ll want to drizzle more on each serving.
• Reheat like a pro. Warm leftovers in the microwave with a spoonful of sauce for a quick dessert fix.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pudding in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave, adding extra sauce to maintain moisture.
  

5 from 2 votes

Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Comforting Classic

Cooking Method: Baking, Simmering Cuisine: European Classics Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 35 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 425

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Dietary:

Nut Free Soy Free Vegetarian

Description

Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—a tender date-infused cake soaked in a buttery, caramelized toffee sauce.

It’s easy to make, full of deep, warm flavors, and pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable treat.

This classic British favorite will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Pudding:

• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¹⁄₄ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt

For the Toffee Sauce:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Place chopped dates in a bowl and pour boiling water over them. Stir in baking soda and let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Cream butter and brown sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold in the softened date mixture.
5. Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and springy.
6. To make the sauce, combine brown sugar, butter, and cream in a saucepan. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in vanilla.
7. Serve warm pudding drizzled generously with toffee sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 425kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Total Carbohydrate 57g19%

Protein 4g8%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Substitute dates with figs for a twist on flavor.
• The sauce can double as a topping for ice cream or pancakes!

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.

Keywords: Sticky Toffee Pudding, Toffee Sauce Dessert, Classic British Pudding