Sticky Toffee Pudding with Toffee Sauce

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

– 175g pitted dates, chopped

– 300ml boiling water

– 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

– 85g unsalted butter, softened

– 140g light brown sugar

– 2 large eggs

– 175g self-raising flour

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Toffee Sauce:

– 200g light brown sugar

– 100g butter

– 250ml double cream

– 1 tbsp black treacle (optional, for a richer flavour)

 

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates:

– Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/Gas mark 4. Grease and line a baking dish (approx. 20cm square or similar size).

– Place the chopped dates in a bowl, pour over the boiling water, and stir in the bicarbonate of soda. Set aside for 10 minutes to soften.

  1. Make the Batter:

– In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

– Fold in the flour, then gently mix in the date mixture, including any soaking liquid, until combined. The batter will be slightly runny.

  1. Bake the Pudding:

– Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

 

  1. Make the Toffee Sauce:

– While the pudding is baking, make the toffee sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and double cream.

– Heat gently, stirring until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Then increase the heat slightly and let it bubble for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the black treacle if you’re using it.

 

  1. Serve:

– When the pudding is ready, cut it into squares and pour a generous amount of warm toffee sauce over each piece. Serve with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat!

 

Enjoy the rich, gooey warmth – perfect with a cuppa on a fros