Sticky Date Pudding Recipe with Rich Caramel Sauce and Moist Texture

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Ruby Bennett
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Why You’ll Love This Sticky Date Pudding

Sticky Date Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings comfort and indulgence to any meal, perfect for home cooks looking to impress without much fuss. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with simple ingredients to create a soft, moist cake that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re a busy parent or a baking enthusiast, this treat offers a balance of ease, flavor, and adaptability that makes it a go-to choice for gatherings or quiet nights in.

One of the best parts about this Sticky Date Pudding is how straightforward it is to prepare, appealing to beginners and experts alike. The use of pitted dates provides not just sweetness but also fiber and antioxidants, adding a nutritious twist to this classic dessert. Plus, you can tweak it for different diets, making it a hit for everyone from students to seniors who want something delicious yet customizable.

Lastly, the distinctive caramel-like taste from the dates and butterscotch sauce sets this pudding apart, offering a warm, memorable flavor that pairs well with ice cream or cream. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for creating special moments around the table.

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Essential Ingredients for Sticky Date Pudding

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a perfect Sticky Date Pudding with its rich, moist texture. Below, I’ll break down the main components for the pudding and the butterscotch sauce, ensuring you have everything needed for success.

Ingredients for the Pudding

  • 280 grams (9 oz) roughly chopped pitted dates
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/4 cup loosely packed brown sugar
  • 80 grams (6 tablespoons) softened unsalted butter
  • 2 eggs at room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups plain all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

Ingredients for the Butterscotch Sauce

  • 1 cup tightly packed brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups thickened (heavy) cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 70 grams (5 tablespoons) unsalted butter

This structured list covers every item required, making it easy to shop and measure accurately. For special dietary options, consider vegan substitutes like plant-based butter or flaxseed eggs to keep the moist texture intact.

How to Prepare the Perfect Sticky Date Pudding: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Sticky Date Pudding just right involves a few simple steps that lead to a moist, flavorful result. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and preparing your baking dish, whether it’s molds or a pan. This recipe takes about 50 minutes total, with 15 minutes for prep and 25 to 35 minutes for baking, depending on the size.

First Step: Soak and Mash the Dates

Dates are soaked in boiling water with baking soda for about 10 minutes, then mashed until they form a thick mixture like porridge. This step is crucial as it softens the dates and helps create the pudding’s signature moist texture. Once mashed, set it aside to cool slightly.

Second Step: Mix the Batter

Beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to ensure they blend seamlessly into the mixture. For tips on perfecting this step, check our guide on mastering variations.

Third and Fourth Steps: Combine and Bake

Sift in the plain all-purpose flour and baking powder, then gently fold in the mashed date mixture along with its liquid. Pour the batter into your prepared dish fill molds two-thirds full or use a lined 20 cm (8″) square pan. Bake for 25 minutes in molds or 35 minutes in the pan, until a skewer comes out clean.

Fifth Step: Prepare the Sauce and Serve

While the pudding bakes, make the butterscotch sauce by simmering brown sugar, thickened cream, vanilla extract, and unsalted butter until smooth. Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke holes in the surface and spoon over the hot sauce, letting it soak for about 10 minutes to enhance moisture and flavor. Serve warm with extra sauce and a side of ice cream or cream for the full experience.

This dessert is sweet, but you can reduce the sauce’s sugar or modify it with milk and cornstarch for a less intense version. With approximately 703 calories per serving, options to lessen sweetness help cut calories while keeping it tasty.

Table of Baking Times

Baking MethodTime (Minutes)Tips
Molds (two-thirds full)25Ideal for individual portions; monitor closely to avoid overbaking.
20 cm (8″) square pan35Great for sharing; rotate pan halfway for even cooking.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Sticky Date Pudding

Sticky Date Pudding is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to various preferences without losing its moist texture. For instance, if you’re vegan, swap eggs with flaxseed or chia eggs and use plant-based butter for a similar rise and richness.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

  • Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia eggs for vegan options.
  • Use plant-based butter or oils to suit dietary needs.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

  • Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance flavors.
  • Substitute traditional sauce with a coconut cream-based version for dairy-free results.
  • Incorporate seasonal fruits or nuts to add texture and variety.

These changes make it easy for busy parents, diet-conscious individuals, or anyone else to enjoy a customized version. Remember, using gluten-free flour blends keeps the pudding light and airy.

This flexible recipe lets you experiment while holding onto that classic Sticky Date Pudding charm it’s all about making it your own!

Mastering Sticky Date Pudding: Advanced Tips and Variations

To take your Sticky Date Pudding to the next level, focus on techniques that ensure an even moist texture, like soaking dates longer and gently whipping the batter. Flavor variations can include adding orange zest or espresso powder for a deeper taste that surprises your guests. For presentation, top with whipped cream or toasted nuts to make it look as good as it tastes.

Make-ahead options are perfect for working professionals; prepare the batter a day in advance and bake fresh when needed. These pro tips help you avoid common pitfalls, such as a dense pudding, by emphasizing proper mixing and timing.

Quick Variation Ideas

  • Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
  • Incorporate espresso powder for a coffee note.
  • Sprinkle toasted nuts for extra crunch.

External link: For more on the benefits of dates in recipes like this, check out reliable resources.

How to Store Sticky Date Pudding: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Sticky Date Pudding moist and fresh for days. Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze portions wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a microwave or oven to warm it through without drying it out.

  • Thaw frozen pudding overnight in the fridge before heating.
  • Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain that soft texture.
  • Prepare batches for meal prep to have quick desserts ready.

This method works well for families or anyone planning ahead, ensuring the pudding reheats nicely with its rich flavors intact.

Sticky Date Pudding

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Date Pudding

What makes Sticky Date Pudding moist and sticky?

The moisture and stickiness in Sticky Date Pudding come primarily from the dates, which release natural sugars and moisture during cooking. Additionally, pouring hot butterscotch or toffee sauce over the pudding while it’s warm—and poking holes in the sponge—allows the sauce to soak in deeply, creating a rich, moist texture and a glossy dark brown finish.

Can I use substitutes for dates in Sticky Date Pudding?

Yes, prunes can be used as a substitute for dates. To prepare, simmer prunes in boiling water for about 10 minutes, then stir in baking soda, cool, and mash before adding to the batter. This maintains the pudding’s moist texture and sweetness with a similar flavor profile.

Is it better to bake Sticky Date Pudding as one large cake or individual portions?

Both large puddings and individual portions work well. Large puddings require longer baking time, while individual puddings (such as in muffin tins or pudding molds) bake faster and are convenient for serving. Fill molds about two-thirds full and allow sauce to soak in gradually for best results.

How can I reduce the sweetness of Sticky Date Pudding sauce without losing flavor?

To make a less sweet sauce, reduce sugar, butter, and cream by half. After simmering, add low-fat milk and a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water to thicken the sauce. This approach balances the sweetness while keeping the sauce creamy and rich.

What is the best way to reheat Sticky Date Pudding to keep it moist?

Reheating in the microwave is recommended to preserve moisture. Before storing, poke holes in the pudding and pour over warm sauce to allow it to soak in. This helps the pudding stay soft and moist when reheated, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.
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Sticky Date Pudding

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🍮 Delight in the rich, moist texture of this Sticky Date Pudding, perfectly complemented by a luscious caramel sauce.
🌟 A comforting classic dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its sweet, indulgent flavors.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

– 280 grams (9 oz) roughly chopped pitted dates

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 cup boiling water

– 1/4 cup loosely packed brown sugar

– 80 grams (6 tablespoons) softened unsalted butter

– 2 eggs at room temperature

– 1 1/4 cups plain all-purpose flour

– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1 cup tightly packed brown sugar

– 1 1/2 cups thickened (heavy) cream

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 70 grams (5 tablespoons) unsalted butter

Instructions

1-First Step: Soak and Mash the Dates Dates are soaked in boiling water with baking soda for about 10 minutes, then mashed until they form a thick mixture like porridge. This step is crucial as it softens the dates and helps create the pudding’s signature moist texture. Once mashed, set it aside to cool slightly.

2-Second Step: Mix the Batter Beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to ensure they blend seamlessly into the mixture. For tips on perfecting this step, check our guide on mastering variations.

3-Third and Fourth Steps: Combine and Bake Sift in the plain all-purpose flour and baking powder, then gently fold in the mashed date mixture along with its liquid. Pour the batter into your prepared dish fill molds two-thirds full or use a lined 20 cm (8”) square pan. Bake for 25 minutes in molds or 35 minutes in the pan, until a skewer comes out clean.

4-Fifth Step: Prepare the Sauce and Serve While the pudding bakes, make the butterscotch sauce by simmering brown sugar, thickened cream, vanilla extract, and unsalted butter until smooth. Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke holes in the surface and spoon over the hot sauce, letting it soak for about 10 minutes to enhance moisture and flavor. Serve warm with extra sauce and a side of ice cream or cream for the full experience.

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Notes

🍮 For best texture, soak dates thoroughly in boiling water before mashing.
🔥 Poke holes into the pudding surface to help the sauce soak in and enhance moisture.
🍨 Serve with ice cream or cream to balance the rich sweetness and add extra indulgence.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 25-35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British
  • Diet: Contains Dairy and Eggs

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 703 kcal
  • Sugar: 60 g
  • Sodium: 240 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 90 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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