Sticky Date Pudding
Ingredients:
For the Pudding:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Toffee Sauce:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, bring the chopped dates and water to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, until the dates are soft.
- Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam up. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Pudding Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
- Stir in the cooled date mixture until well combined.
3. Bake the Pudding:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly in the pan.
4. Make the Toffee Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Serve:
- Cut the warm pudding into squares and serve with a generous drizzle of toffee sauce.
- For an extra indulgent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Enjoy your Sticky Date Pudding! This rich and moist dessert, topped with a luscious toffee sauce, is perfect for any occasion.
