Sticky date pudding

Sticky date pudding is a moist sponge cake enriched with sweet dates and served warm, often topped with a creamy toffee sauce. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion and offers a comforting sweetness that’s sure to please.

18 Feb 2026
Cook time 75 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

1 cup dates
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Sticky date pudding is a rich and decadent dessert that combines the sweetness of dates with a moist sponge cake, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This classic dessert is often enjoyed with a generous serving of creamy toffee sauce, adding an extra layer of indulgence. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create a delicious sticky date pudding that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.

2. Prepare the Dates:
- Chop the dates into small pieces.
- Place the chopped dates in a small saucepan and add 1 cup of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then remove from the heat.
- Stir in the baking soda. Set aside to cool. This will become slightly foamy.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or by hand with a wooden spoon.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Flour and Date Mixture:
- Gradually add the self-raising flour to the creamed mixture, mixing gently to combine.
- Fold in the cooled date mixture, ensuring it is well incorporated.

6. Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or ramekins.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Make the Toffee Sauce (optional but recommended):
- While the pudding is baking, you can prepare a toffee sauce if desired.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup butter (113g), 1 cup brown sugar (230g), and 1 cup heavy whipping cream (230g).
- Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

8. Serve:
- Once the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Serve the sticky date pudding warm, drizzled with the prepared toffee sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

With its moist texture and rich flavor, sticky date pudding is sure to become a favorite dessert in your household. Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, this pudding is a delightful treat that is both comforting and satisfying. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this classic dessert as much as we do!

Sticky date pudding FAQ:

How do I know when my sticky date pudding is done?

The pudding is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, usually after 30-35 minutes of baking. It should also be slightly firm to the touch.

What can I use instead of self-raising flour?

You can substitute self-raising flour with all-purpose flour by adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder per cup of flour. Make sure to mix the baking powder evenly with the flour before adding it to the batter.

How should I store leftover sticky date pudding?

Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy later, reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I make the pudding in individual ramekins?

Yes, you can bake the sticky date pudding in individual ramekins. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

What are some alternatives for heavy whipping cream in the toffee sauce?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute, though the flavor and thickness may vary. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free option that complements the dessert well.

Tips:

- Use high-quality dates for the best flavor.: Medjool dates are a great choice because they are naturally sweet and have a soft texture that blends well into the pudding.

- Soak the dates before blending.: Soak the dates in boiling water for about 10 minutes to soften them, making them easier to blend into a smooth consistency.

- Do not overmix the batter.: Overmixing can result in a dense pudding. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to achieve a light and fluffy texture.

- Use fresh baking soda.: Baking soda loses its potency over time. Ensure it is fresh to make the pudding rise properly and achieve the desired texture.

- Check for doneness with a toothpick.: Insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding. If it comes out clean, the pudding is done. This helps avoid overbaking.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 460kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 2.62g
Sugar 40g
Fat 18g

Sticky date pudding