Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce

Q: What exactly *are* the best types of warm desserts to make on a chilly evening?

Well, isn't that the million-dollar question! "Warm desserts" are all about comfort and coziness. Think Sticky Toffee Pudding, apple crumble, bread and butter pudding, or even a chocolate lava cake. They're the sort of thing that warms you from the inside out, like a good cup of tea and a chat with your best mate.

Warm Desserts My Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

By Emma PrescottSeptember 16, 2025

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4.20 (5 Ratings)

Table of Contents

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a hug in a bowl? Honestly, who doesn't? This Sticky Toffee Pudding is the ultimate warm desserts experience! Think rich dates, gooey butterscotch, and pure comfort.

Brief Overview

This British dessert is a classic for a reason. It is originated in England and it's proper comfort food. This recipe is medium difficulty and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to make.

It yields 6-8 servings, perfect for sharing... or not!

Main Benefits

Dates are actually pretty good for you! This pudding offers a surprising energy boost. It's ideal for a chilly evening or any time you need a little self care.

What makes this easy warm desserts so special? The sauce, obviously!

Okay, let's dive into this like we're Mary Berry judging a baking competition! First, gather your ingredients.

For the pudding, you will need 8 ounces chopped pitted dates, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 cup boiling water.

You'll also need 4 ounces softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Now for the butterscotch sauce. Grab ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Time to make something wonderful!

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Sticky Toffee Success Starts Here

Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce presentation

Okay, let's dive into this like we're Mary Berry judging a baking competition. This Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe is gonna be epic.

But, you gotta have the right stuff, you know? Proper ingredients and the right gear make all the difference. So, grab your apron, and let’s get sorted.

Main Ingredients for the Win

Alright, listen up. This ain't just chucking stuff in a bowl. We're aiming for best warm desserts here. Quality is key.

Dates: 8 ounces (225g) , pitted and roughly chopped. Medjool dates are lush. Avoid ones that are rock hard.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon Don't skip this. It helps with the date thing.
Boiling Water: 1 cup (240ml)
Butter: 4 ounces (115g) , unsalted, softened. Seriously, soften it. Fridge cold butter is a pain.
Sugar: ¾ cup (150g) , granulated.
Eggs: 2 large Eggs should be room temp too!.
Flour: 1 ¾ cups (210g) , all-purpose.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: Pinch.

Then for that amazing butterscotch sauce recipe :

Butter: ½ cup (115g) , unsalted. Get good butter for this, it's worth it.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g) , packed light brown. The 'packed' bit matters!
Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Double cream if you're feeling fancy.
Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon
Salt: Pinch

Seasoning Notes That Zing

Honestly, the dates and butterscotch do most of the heavy lifting. But, a little extra never hurt.

Vanilla in the sauce is essential . It rounds everything out. A pinch of salt in both the pudding and sauce balances the sweetness. You know?

For a little extra oomph , a tiny splash of dark rum in the sauce is amazing.

Equipment Needed (The Bare Minimum)

Right, you don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this. But, a few things are essential.

8 inch (20cm) cake pan or heatproof bowl.
Steamer setup (pot and trivet) or oven. You can bake this instead, so no stress if you ain't got a steamer.
Electric mixer (optional). Hands work fine too.
Saucepan for the butterscotch.
Parchment paper. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Don't sweat if you don't have a cake pan. A decent heatproof bowl works a treat. Now you are set to create the best warm desserts, or, as some call it, pure happiness.

Cooking Method: Sticky Toffee Pudding Let's Get Started!

Okay, let's dive into this like we're Mary Berry judging a baking competition. Given the recipe for sticky toffee pudding , let's get started! Nothing beats a proper warm dessert.

Especially on a cold evening, you know? Think about that yummy sticky toffee pudding. It's like a hug in a bowl absolute comfort food desserts , innit?

Prep Steps for Pudding Perfection

Essential mise en place is key. First, chop those dates! Roughly chop 8 ounces of pitted dates. Then get 1 teaspoon of baking soda ready.

Next, boil 1 cup of water. Have 4 ounces of softened butter ready to go. Also, grab ¾ cup of granulated sugar.

Finally, crack 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.

Time saving organization : Measure out your flour (1 ¾ cups), baking powder (1 tsp), and salt (a pinch). Sift them together! Honestly, it saves so much time later.

Safety Reminders : Be careful with that boiling water. Don't burn yourself! Also, when steaming or baking, remember oven gloves. No one wants a burnt hand.

step-by-step: From Prep to Pudding

Soften the Dates : Combine the chopped dates, baking soda, and boiling water. Let it sit until they're nice and soft.
Cream Time : Cream 4 ounces of butter and ¾ cup of sugar. Do it until it’s light and fluffy.
Egg-cellent : Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time.
Dry Meets Wet : Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Date Night : Stir in the date mixture.
Pan Prep : Grease and line an 8 inch cake pan with parchment paper.
Batter Up : Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Cook Time : Steam for about 45 minutes , or bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30- 40 minutes . A skewer should come out clean.

Pro Tips: Pudding Pro Status

Want to kick it up a notch? A little bit of salt can make all the difference!

Expert Technique : Want a deeper flavor? Soak the dates in coffee instead of water. Oh my gosh, it's incredible.

Common Mistakes : Don't overbake! It'll be dry. Use a skewer to check!

This classic British dessert recipes is best served Easy warm desserts , that will be your Best warm desserts for Winter dessert recipes .

It can be paired with Warm pudding with sauce .

Recipe Notes for the Best Sticky Toffee Pudding

Okay, let's dive into this like we're Mary Berry judging a baking competition. This Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe is pure gold, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

This isn't just about following instructions. It's about making it your Sticky Toffee Pudding!

Presentation Perfection: Plating and Serving Ideas

Honestly, presentation matters. A simple dusting of powdered sugar looks fab. And a scoop of proper vanilla ice cream? Oh my gosh, game changer.

But get this, you could also use clotted cream. Serve alongside a piping hot cuppa. A strong English Breakfast will cut through the richness perfectly.

We're aiming for a comforting, cosy vibe here.

The Nitty Gritty: Storage Tips

So, you've made this incredible sticky toffee pudding recipe, and by some miracle, you have leftovers? First of all, how? But seriously, here's what to do.

Refrigeration: Keep it in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to three days. Freezing: You can freeze it, but the texture might change a bit.

Wrap it well in cling film, then foil. It'll last up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts or in a low oven until warmed through. Warm butterscotch sauce is essential when serving!

Mix It Up: Variations to Make It Your Own

Fancy a little twist? Stir chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch. Want a mocha flavour? Add instant coffee to the butterscotch sauce!

For gluten-free folks, use a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. It's a total winner. The best warm desserts can adapt to everyone.

Nutrition Snippets: Keeping It Real

Let's be real, this is a dessert. But knowing what's what is still good. Each serving is about 550-650 calories.

Carbs are around 70g, and sugar is roughly 50g. This recipe is a warm pudding with sauce and a treat, not a health food! Embrace the comfort food desserts.

This easy warm desserts will be the star of the show

Final Thoughts: Go On, Give It a Go!

Don't be scared to experiment! Making this date pudding recipe should be fun. Get in the kitchen and try our British dessert recipes .

The Winter dessert recipes will bring the family together.

Have a go at creating your own Steamed pudding recipes . You got this. You are going to create Best warm desserts ! It is easier than you think! The final result will make you happier.

Warm Pudding Ultimate Sticky Toffee Dessert Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are the best types of warm desserts to make on a chilly evening?

Well, isn't that the million dollar question! "Warm desserts" are all about comfort and coziness. Think Sticky Toffee Pudding, apple crumble, bread and butter pudding, or even a chocolate lava cake. They're the sort of thing that warms you from the inside out, like a good cup of tea and a chat with your best mate.

My Sticky Toffee Pudding keeps turning out dry what am I doing wrong?

Ah, the dreaded dry pudding! Chances are, you're either over baking/steaming it, or you haven't soaked the dates properly. Make sure you soak the dates fully in boiling water with baking soda until they're soft.

Also, use a skewer to check for doneness and take it out of the oven or steamer as soon as the skewer comes out clean. No one wants a desert that tastes like cardboard!

Can I make the butterscotch sauce for this, or other, warm desserts ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can make the butterscotch sauce a day or two in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve your Sticky Toffee Pudding (or any other applicable warm desserts), gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave until it's warm and smooth.

You might need to add a splash of cream or milk if it's thickened too much.

I'm trying to be a bit healthier any suggestions for lighter warm desserts?

I hear you! While Sticky Toffee Pudding is a treat, there are definitely lighter options. Try a baked apple with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey, or a fruit crumble with oats on top (use less butter and sugar in the crumble topping). Another option is poached pears in red wine.

You can also reduce the sugar in recipes, or substitute with natural sweeteners like maple syrup in moderation. A little of what you fancy does you good, though!

How long does Sticky Toffee Pudding last, and what's the best way to store it?

Sticky Toffee Pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven. Be sure to add some extra butterscotch sauce when reheating to keep it moist and delicious!

Is there any easy way to make a big batch of warm desserts?

Yes, absolutely! When making Sticky Toffee Pudding, consider using a larger baking dish or multiple smaller ones to accommodate a bigger batch. For something like apple crumble, just multiply the ingredient quantities accordingly and use a larger baking dish.

If you’re feeling adventurous and serving a crowd, consider a dessert fondue with chocolate or caramel sauce and various dippers (fruit, marshmallows, etc.). Now that's a proper spread!