Name: Sticky Toffee Pudding
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 7 oz pitted Medjool dates (about 7-10 dates); ¾ cup boiling water; 1 tsp baking soda; 5 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 2 tbsp unsulphured molasses; ⅓ cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; ¾ cup heavy cream; ¾ cup packed brown sugar; 2 tsp unsulphured molasses; Pinch of salt; ½ tsp pure vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Vanilla ice cream; Heavy cream; Flaky sea salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Sticky Toffee Pudding is a rich and indulgent British dessert featuring soft, moist sponge cakes made with sweet dates, soaked in a luscious toffee sauce. Served warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream, this comforting treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet and decadent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Moist & Fluffy – Thanks to the addition of dates and molasses.
Rich & Buttery Toffee Sauce – A warm caramel-like sauce that enhances every bite.
Perfect for Special Occasions – A classic British dessert loved by many.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Bake the cakes in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
Customizable – Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

7 oz pitted Medjool dates (about 7-10 dates)
¾ cup boiling water
1 teaspoon baking soda
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses
⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Toffee Sauce

½ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup heavy cream
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons unsulphured molasses
Pinch of salt
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

To Serve (Optional)

Heavy cream
Whipped cream
Vanilla ice cream
Flaky sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease ramekins or a muffin tin.
Finely chop the dates and place them in a bowl. Pour over the boiling water and sprinkle with baking soda. Let sit for 20 minutes to soften.
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar, and molasses until creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
After soaking, mash the dates with a fork (or blend for a smoother consistency). Add the date mixture to the batter and mix until incorporated.

2. Bake the Cakes

Transfer the batter to the greased ramekins or muffin tin, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before unmolding.

3. Make the Toffee Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream, brown sugar, molasses, and salt.
Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, and cook for 5-8 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly (it will thicken as it cools).

4. Assemble & Serve

While the cakes are still warm, brush all sides with toffee sauce, reserving extra for serving.
Serve warm, drizzled with additional toffee sauce and topped with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or heavy cream.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 individual cakes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
Chocolate Twist: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey version.
Spiced Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the toffee sauce refrigerated separately.
Reheating: Warm cakes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving. Reheat the toffee sauce over low heat until smooth.
Freezing: Wrap individual cakes in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of dates?

Yes, but Medjool dates are preferred for their natural sweetness and soft texture. If using regular dates, soak them a bit longer to soften.

Can I make this in a single large pan?

Yes! Bake in a 9-inch cake pan for 30-35 minutes.

What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute dark maple syrup or honey, though molasses gives the best deep caramel flavor.

How do I prevent the cakes from being too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, and use room temperature eggs to help with fluffiness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The cakes can be baked a day in advance. Store them at room temperature and reheat before serving with fresh toffee sauce.

What’s the best way to serve Sticky Toffee Pudding?

It’s best served warm, drizzled with toffee sauce, and paired with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a splash of heavy cream.

Can I make the toffee sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week and warm it before serving.

Is this dessert very sweet?

Yes, but the rich toffee sauce and soft sponge balance the flavors well. You can reduce the brown sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or more ramekins.

How do I know when the cakes are done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re done!

Conclusion

This Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate comforting dessert, combining moist sponge cake, rich toffee sauce, and creamy toppings for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, dinner party, or just a cozy night in, this classic British dessert is sure to impress. Serve it warm, drizzle on that luscious sauce, and enjoy every delicious bite!