If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender sponge cake bursting with juicy dates, smothered in a rich, buttery toffee sauce that’s incredibly easy to make at home. This classic British treat is perfectly portioned for an intimate dessert experience, combining simple pantry staples into a truly unforgettable finale to any meal. Whether you’re impressing a special someone or simply treating yourself, this recipe is pure comfort and sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the iconic flavor and texture. From the sweetness of dates to the creaminess of butter and brown sugar, every component adds depth and balance.
- Chopped pitted dates (1/2 cup): These natural sweeteners soften in boiling water to create a moist, rich base.
- Boiling water (1/2 cup): Helps soak the dates, ensuring the pudding is luxuriously tender.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Reacts with the soaking liquid to keep the sponge light and fluffy.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness and moistness to the cake batter.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, light or dark): Delivers deep caramel notes that pair beautifully with the dates.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and gives structure to the pudding.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Forms the base of the sponge with perfect balance.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle leavening for a light texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the flavors.
For the toffee sauce:
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Gives the sauce a silky, buttery mouthfeel.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): The heart of that sticky, caramelized flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the sauce’s sweet and buttery qualities.
How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dates
Start by combining the chopped dates and boiling water in a small bowl. Stir in the baking soda and let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This step softens the dates and activates the baking soda, which will help your pudding achieve that perfectly moist texture.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until you get a smooth, fluffy mixture. This is the foundation for your sponge pudding that promises delicate sweetness and moisture. Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract, making sure everything blends beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This method ensures even distribution of your leavening agents and salt, which is critical for a consistent rise and flavor.
Step 4: Bring it All Together
Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, just until combined. Next, gently fold in the softened date mixture along with all the soaking liquid. This incorporation of dates with their soaking water keeps the batter moist and full of tender, fruity pockets.
Step 5: Bake the Puddings
Divide the batter evenly between two lightly greased 6-ounce ramekins and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This precise baking time guarantees a soft yet cooked-through pudding.
Step 6: Prepare the Toffee Sauce
While the puddings are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce is glossy, smooth, and has thickened slightly. This sauce is the signature finishing touch that turns a delicious cake into a sticky toffee masterpiece.
Step 7: Serve with Warm Toffee Sauce
After baking, let the puddings cool briefly for about 5 minutes. You can either invert them onto plates or serve them directly in the ramekins. Pour the warm toffee sauce generously over the puddings right before serving to enjoy every luscious bite.
How to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe, simplicity and decadence reign. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream is a classic, cooling contrast to the warm pudding and sauce. For a subtle crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or a few chocolate shavings on top.
Side Dishes
This dessert is satisfying all on its own, but if you want to elevate your dessert course, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a light fruit compote. The tartness of berries balances the richness perfectly, making every mouthful exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a romantic or festive touch, serve each ramekin nestled on a delicate doily or a dessert plate with a drizzle of extra toffee sauce around the edges. Alternatively, add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar to make your Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe look as delightful as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, cover the pudding tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the pudding will stay moist and fresh for up to 2 days, though toffee sauce may need reheating before serving.
Freezing
This Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap each cooled pudding individually in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place pudding with toffee sauce in a microwave-safe dish and warm for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until heated through. Alternatively, warm in a low oven, covered, until heated thoroughly. Always add a little extra toffee sauce if it has thickened or dried out in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream or another plant-based cream. The texture and flavor will still be deliciously satisfying.
What if I do not have ramekins?
No worries! You can bake the pudding in a small baking dish instead. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes to cook through evenly.
Are dates necessary or can I use other dried fruits?
Dates are traditional and lend a rich caramel flavor, but you can substitute with chopped figs or prunes. Keep in mind the flavor and moisture will vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, you can enjoy this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or multiple ramekins. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s just as rich and sticky.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe enough, especially when you’re looking to indulge in something sweet, simple, and utterly comforting. It’s a wonderful blend of tradition, flavor, and ease that feels just right whether it’s a quiet night in or a special occasion. So go ahead, give this little gem a try—you’ll be amazed at how this humble dessert can bring so much joy to the table.
Print
Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two is a classic British dessert featuring moist date cake drenched in a rich, buttery toffee sauce. Perfectly portioned for a cozy romantic treat, this dessert combines soft baked date pudding served warm with a luscious, creamy sauce that melts in your mouth. It’s simple to prepare and bakes quickly, making it an ideal indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pudding
- 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Toffee Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare ramekins: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 6-ounce ramekins and set aside to prevent sticking during baking.
- Soften dates: In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates with boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. This softens the dates and creates a thick, flavorful liquid to incorporate into the batter.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This step creates a light and fluffy base for the pudding.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture until fully combined, ensuring a smooth batter texture.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute the leavening evenly.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then fold in the softened date mixture, including any liquid, to ensure the pudding batter remains moist and tender.
- Fill ramekins and bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins. Place them in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the pudding is cooked through.
- Prepare toffee sauce: While the puddings bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Cool and serve: Remove the puddings from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Invert each pudding onto a plate or serve directly in the ramekins. Generously pour the warm toffee sauce over the top before serving to elevate the indulgent flavor.
Notes
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence and contrast to the warm pudding.
- If ramekins aren’t available, you can bake the pudding batter in a single small baking dish; just adjust the bake time slightly (likely a bit longer).
- For best results, use fresh dates and high-quality butter and cream to enhance the flavor of the pudding and toffee sauce.
