Introduction

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert known for its rich, moist sponge made with finely chopped dates, served with a luscious, buttery caramel sauce. This dessert is decadently sweet yet comforting, making it a perfect finale for dinner parties, holiday feasts, or cozy nights at home. The combination of tender cake, deep toffee flavor, and glossy caramel sauce makes each bite irresistibly indulgent.

This dessert embodies comfort and elegance. The sponge is soft, fluffy, and moist, while the caramel sauce adds a warm, sweet, and buttery finish that makes Sticky Toffee Pudding a timeless favorite. It’s a dessert that brings smiles, nostalgia, and pure satisfaction.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances richness and comfort beautifully. The tender date-filled sponge has a subtle natural sweetness, while the caramel sauce provides depth and indulgence without being overpowering. It’s warm, moist, and satisfying — a dessert that feels luxurious but is approachable to make. Every forkful feels like a hug on a plate.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Comfort Dessert: Iconic British pudding with deep flavors.
• Rich & Moist: Perfectly balanced sponge with sticky caramel sauce.
• Versatile: Great for holiday dinners, special occasions, or casual indulgence.
• Kid & Adult Friendly: Loved by all ages for its sweet, comforting flavor.
• Impressively Simple: Uses simple ingredients but yields an elegant dessert.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Caramel Sauce Preparation: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 65–70 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: Approximately 450–500 kcal per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: British / European

Ingredients

For the Sponge:

• 1 cup (240 ml) boiling water
• 1 cup (200 g) chopped pitted dates
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Toasted nuts for garnish

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking dish.
2. Soak dates in boiling water with baking soda.
3. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
4. Combine with flour and date mixture.
5. Bake sponge until set.
6. Prepare caramel sauce.
7. Pour sauce over warm pudding and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.

Step 2: Prepare Dates

1. Place chopped dates in a bowl.
2. Pour boiling water over dates, add baking soda, and stir.
3. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften.

Step 3: Prepare Sponge Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Fold flour mixture into butter mixture.
5. Stir in soaked dates with their liquid until evenly combined.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding

1. Pour batter into prepared baking dish or individual ramekins.
2. Bake for 35–40 minutes (20–25 minutes for ramekins) until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
3. Allow to cool slightly while preparing the sauce.

Step 5: Make Caramel Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Add brown sugar and stir until smooth.
3. Pour in heavy cream, whisk until combined.
4. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Serve

1. Pour warm caramel sauce generously over pudding.
2. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and optionally sprinkle with toasted nuts.

Recipe Tips

• Dates: Chop finely for even distribution.
• Moisture: Use the soaking liquid to add extra moisture to sponge.
• Check Baking: Toothpick should come out clean but sponge remains soft.
• Caramel Sauce: Prepare fresh for best flavor and consistency.
• Individual Servings: Ramekins give a classic presentation.

Variations

• Chocolate Sticky Toffee Pudding: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to sponge.
• Nutty Variation: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Apple-Infused: Add finely chopped apples to date mixture for extra fruitiness.
• Spiced Caramel Sauce: Add ¼ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg to sauce for warmth.
• Layered Pudding: Serve pudding with alternating layers of caramel sauce and whipped cream.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sponge (without sauce) up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator; prepare caramel sauce fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking dish (8×8-inch) or ramekins
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Small saucepan for caramel sauce
• Cooling rack

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, bake sponge in advance; reheat slightly and pour caramel sauce before serving.

Q2: Can I use medjool dates?
Yes, medjool dates work well; chop finely.

Q3: Can I make vegan sticky toffee pudding?
Yes, substitute butter with vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs, and use plant-based cream for sauce.

Q4: Can this be served in individual portions?
Yes, ramekins or muffin tins work well for single servings.

Conclusion

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Caramel Sauce is a decadent, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist date sponge, rich caramel sauce, and optional whipped cream create a sweet, indulgent experience with every bite. Whether served as a family treat or a show-stopping dessert at a dinner party, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.