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Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce Recipe

Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 28 reviews

A classic and indulgent Sticky Date Pudding served warm with a rich and creamy homemade butterscotch sauce. This comforting dessert blends the natural sweetness of dates with a moist, fluffy sponge, perfectly complemented by a luscious sauce that’s easy to prepare. Ideal for cozy gatherings or a special treat any time of the year.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:

  • 1 cup (180g) pitted dates, chopped
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 60g unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (150g) self-raising flour

For the Butterscotch Sauce:

  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (250ml) thickened cream
  • 1/2 cup (125g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the pudding.
  2. Soak Dates: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften the dates, which will help create a moist pudding texture.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This process incorporates air into the batter for a lighter texture.
  4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to fully combine and maintain the batter’s lightness.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the self-raising flour followed by the softened date mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the pudding dense.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the pudding is cooked through.
  7. Prepare Butterscotch Sauce: While the pudding bakes, combine butter, brown sugar, and thickened cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until smooth and bubbling. Add vanilla extract, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 2 minutes to thicken and enhance the flavors.
  8. Serve: Remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm slices drizzled generously with the hot butterscotch sauce for a decadent dessert experience.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of espresso powder or cinnamon to the batter.
  • The pudding can be made a day ahead and reheated gently in the microwave before serving.
  • Use a non-dairy cream alternative in the sauce for a dairy-free version.
  • Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For best results, use very ripe dates for natural sweetness and softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sticky Date Pudding, Butterscotch Sauce, Date Cake, Classic Dessert, Warm Pudding, Comfort Food, Moist Cake