Ingredients
Pudding:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Toffee Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dates: In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the dates are soft. Let the mixture cool slightly, then puree or mash it until smooth for a moist date paste.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and salt for proper rising and flavor.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter with the brown sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporation of air will help create a tender texture in the pudding.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the vanilla extract, egg, and orange zest into the creamed butter and sugar until fully combined. Then fold in the mashed date mixture gently.
- Combine batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding carefully to combine without overmixing. The batter should be smooth and thick.
- Bake the pudding: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is nicely browned.
- Make the toffee sauce: In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, unsalted butter, brown sugar, molasses, and light corn syrup. Place over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Serve: Once the pudding is baked, allow it to cool slightly. Cut into portions and generously drizzle with warm toffee sauce just before serving for a gooey, decadent dessert.
Notes
- The dates add natural sweetness and moisture, making the pudding tender and rich.
- Orange zest brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Be careful not to overbake to keep the pudding soft and moist.
- If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend that can be baked similarly.
- For a vegan adaptation, use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British