How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Beloved British Dessert

 

Sticky toffee pudding is a rich and indulgent British dessert that never fails to satisfy. This classic treat features a moist sponge made with dates, smothered in a warm toffee sauce, and traditionally served with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream. Whether you're preparing it for Sunday lunch, a festive gathering, or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, sticky toffee pudding is the ultimate comfort pudding.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

What Is Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Sticky toffee pudding is a steamed or baked sponge cake made with chopped dates, which add natural sweetness and a moist texture. The sponge is drenched in a luscious, buttery toffee sauce and served warm. Originating in the Lake District or Yorkshire (depending on who you ask), this dessert has become a staple in pubs, restaurants, and home kitchens across the UK.

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Ingredients for Sticky Toffee Pudding

This recipe serves 6–8 people and can be made in a square tin, individual ramekins or a baking dish.

For the sponge:

175g dried dates (pitted and chopped)

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

250ml boiling water

85g unsalted butter (softened)

140g demerara sugar

2 large eggs

200g self-raising flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

For the toffee sauce:

200ml double cream

100g light brown sugar

100g unsalted butter

1 tbsp black treacle (optional, for richness)

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Step-by-Step Method: How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1: Soak the Dates

Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Stir in the bicarbonate of soda and leave to soak and soften for about 20 minutes. This helps create the moist texture that makes sticky toffee pudding so irresistible.

Step 2: Make the Sponge

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / Gas Mark 4. Grease a 20cm square baking tin or 6–8 ramekins.

Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Fold in the flour and salt, then mix in the soaked dates along with their liquid. The mixture will be quite loose, but that’s normal.

Pour into the prepared tin or ramekins and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Step 3: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the sponge is baking, make the sauce. In a saucepan, gently heat the cream, butter, sugar and treacle (if using) over low heat. Stir until everything is melted and combined. Let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Serve

Once the sponge is baked, remove it from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Poke a few holes in the top with a skewer and pour over a little warm toffee sauce to soak in.

Serve warm portions with extra sauce poured over the top and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, custard or clotted cream.

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Tips for Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding

Don’t skip the date soak – it’s essential for a soft sponge.

Make ahead: You can bake the sponge and prepare the sauce a day in advance. Simply reheat before serving.

Use black treacle for deeper flavour in the sauce.

Double the sauce if you’re a fan – it keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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Serving Suggestions

Classic: Warm pudding with lashings of toffee sauce and custard.

Modern twist: Serve in individual ramekins for a posh dinner party dessert.

Festive version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or mixed spice for a wintery feel.

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History of Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sticky toffee pudding is believed to have been introduced in the 20th century, with origins often linked to the Lake District or Yorkshire. One popular story credits Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel in Cumbria as the birthplace of the dessert. Since then, it’s become a national treasure and a staple on British pub menus.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Authentic British flavour – rich, buttery, and utterly comforting.

Simple ingredients – no fancy equipment or exotic items required.

Ideal for sharing – perfect for Sunday lunch or special occasions.

Loved by all ages – children and adults alike adore it.

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Conclusion

Now you know how to make sticky toffee pudding, a classic British dessert that’s guaranteed to warm the soul. With its moist sponge, indulgent sauce, and perfect pairing with cream or custard, this recipe is one you'll return to time and again.

Give this traditional treat a try and enjoy the comforting flavours that define British puddings at their best. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening or as the grand finale to a roast dinner, sticky toffee pudding always hits the spot.

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Learn how to make sticky toffee pudding with this easy British recipe. Moist sponge, rich toffee sauce, and perfect for Sunday dessert or any special occasion.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.