Sticky Date Pudding

Sticky Date Pudding Recipe - Australian Dessert

Region / culture: Australia | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sticky Date Pudding is a classic dessert that is loved by many for its rich, moist texture and sweet toffee sauce. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or simply as a comforting dessert on a cold day.

History

Sticky Date Pudding is believed to have originated in England in the late 20th century. It quickly gained popularity in Australia and New Zealand, where it is now a staple dessert on many restaurant menus.

Ingredients

1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
1 cup boiling water
2 tbsp butter
1 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1.5 cup self-rising flour
1 cup brown sugar
0.75 cup cream
0.5 tsp vanilla essence
2 tbsp butter

How to prepare

Pour the water over the dates in a saucepan and let them stand.
Cream the butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Gently fold in the flour.
Add the date mixture and pour it into a lightly greased 18 cm (7") square or round cake tin.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35 minutes.
To make the toffee sauce, combine the remaining ingredients in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Cut the pudding into squares and place each square in the center of a warm plate.
Pour the hot toffee sauce over each serving and serve with cream or ice cream.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Drizzle the pudding with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for a different twist.
Serve the pudding with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh dates for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to ensure a tender pudding.

- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to prevent a tough pudding.

- Serve the pudding warm with the toffee sauce for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sticky Date Pudding warm with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is essential for a tender pudding.

- Folding in the flour gently will help prevent overmixing and ensure a soft texture.

- Simmering the toffee sauce for 5 minutes will thicken it to the perfect consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar in the pudding batter.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter in the pudding and toffee sauce.

- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of self-rising flour, but you may need to adjust the leavening agents.

Make Ahead Tips

Sticky Date Pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sticky Date Pudding in individual ramekins for a stylish presentation. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Sticky Date Pudding pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting dessert experience. For a special occasion, serve with a glass of dessert wine or port.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sticky Date Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sticky Date Pudding contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sticky Date Pudding contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sticky Date Pudding contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sticky Date Pudding contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sticky Date Pudding is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Sticky Date Pudding contains dairy (butter, cream) and eggs.

Summary

Sticky Date Pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Sticky Date Pudding is a beloved dessert known for its rich, moist texture and sweet toffee sauce. This classic treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting dessert on a cold day. Enjoy this indulgent pudding with a scoop of cream or ice cream for a truly decadent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Sticky Date Pudding. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for afternoon tea. Margaret was known for her delicious desserts, and on this particular day, she served us a warm, rich pudding that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

As I took my first bite, the flavors of sticky dates, caramel sauce, and warm spices exploded in my mouth. It was a symphony of sweetness and warmth that left me craving more. I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.

Margaret's recipe for Sticky Date Pudding was passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend who had traveled to England many years ago. The recipe was a family secret, carefully guarded and only shared with those who truly appreciated its magic.

I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this delectable dessert for my own family. I gathered the ingredients – dates, flour, sugar, eggs, and spices – and set to work in my kitchen, following Margaret's instructions to the letter.

The process of making Sticky Date Pudding was laborious but rewarding. I soaked the dates in hot water until they were plump and tender, then pureed them into a thick, sweet paste. I mixed the paste with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, creating a batter that was rich and velvety.

While the pudding baked in the oven, I prepared the caramel sauce – a decadent blend of butter, brown sugar, and cream that would be drizzled over the warm dessert. The aroma of sweet dates and caramel filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the pudding was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in. I scooped a generous portion onto a plate, topped it with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, and took my first bite. The pudding was warm and gooey, with a rich, caramel flavor that melted in my mouth. It was pure bliss.

From that day on, Sticky Date Pudding became a staple in my dessert repertoire. I made it for special occasions, holidays, and family gatherings, and it never failed to impress. My children and grandchildren would beg me to make it, knowing that it was a treat reserved for only the most special occasions.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to Margaret's original recipe, adding a splash of rum to the caramel sauce for an extra kick, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for a touch of warmth. Each time I made Sticky Date Pudding, I felt a connection to Margaret and her grandmother, and to the generations of women who had passed down this recipe through the years.

As I grew older, I began to realize the power of recipes like Sticky Date Pudding – they were more than just instructions for making a delicious dessert. They were a link to the past, a connection to the loved ones who had shared them with me, and a way to pass on a piece of myself to future generations.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the smells of dates, caramel, and spices, I feel a sense of gratitude for all the women who came before me, who shared their recipes and their love with me. Sticky Date Pudding will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a simple dessert made with love.