Introduction
Sticky Toffee Pudding is a beloved dessert in Scotland and the UK, known for its rich, moist sponge cake made with dates and drenched in a luxurious toffee sauce. This indulgent treat is often served warm, accompanied by vanilla ice cream or custard, making it the perfect way to end a meal.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup (150g) dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup (180ml) boiling water
- 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (125g) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Toffee Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Vanilla ice cream or custard
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking dish.
- Place the chopped dates in a bowl, sprinkle with baking soda, and pour the boiling water over them. Let them soak for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Make the Pudding Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the flour until just combined.
- Stir the soaked dates and their liquid into the batter, mixing gently.
- Bake the Pudding:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Toffee Sauce:
- While the pudding is baking, prepare the toffee sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve:
- Once the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and poke small holes across the surface using a skewer.
- Pour about half of the warm toffee sauce over the pudding, allowing it to soak in.
- Serve slices of the pudding warm, drizzled with extra toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard on the side. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, with its rich flavors and gooey texture making it a favorite for special occasions or whenever you need a sweet indulgence. Enjoy this traditional Scottish treat with family and friends!