If you are craving a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting, you are absolutely going to love this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe. It blends moist sponge cake studded with sweet, tender dates with luscious, buttery toffee sauce that’s just the right amount of rich without being overwhelming. Perfectly portioned for a cozy night in, this pudding will soon become your go-to treat when you want something special without making a huge batch. Get ready for a warm, sticky sweetness that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe. From the soft dates adding natural sweetness and texture to the rich, creamy sauce, every component works in harmony to create this unforgettable dessert.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the tender structure for the pudding’s cake base.
- 1/4 tsp baking powder: Gives the pudding a gentle rise and lightness.
- 1/8 tsp baking soda: Helps balance acidity and enhances softness.
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm spice note that complements the caramel flavors beautifully.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and a buttery richness to the cake batter.
- 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar: Contributes deep, molasses-like sweetness enhancing the toffee notes.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and lends structure to the pudding.
- 1/3 cup finely chopped dates (about 4-5 dates, pitted): Brings chewy sweetness and natural caramel undertones.
- 2 tbsp boiling water: Softens the dates and creates a paste that blends smoothly into the batter.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic warmth that elevates the whole dessert.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for sauce): The base of the rich, velvety toffee sauce.
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar (for sauce): Boosts that signature toffee flavor with a hint of caramel complexity.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky texture of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (for sauce): Infuses the sauce with sweet depth.
- Pinch of salt (for sauce): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the toffee taste.
How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dates
Start by finely chopping your pitted dates and soaking them in boiling water for about five minutes. This softens the dates, making them easier to mash into a thick, sweet paste that will infuse your pudding with the signature chewy pockets of caramel flavor.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional cinnamon in a bowl. These dry ingredients combine to give your pudding the perfect rise and a subtle depth of flavor from the cinnamon.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a tender, moist pudding with that rich caramel undertone.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla extract to your butter and sugar mixture and mix until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. This ensures the batter comes together evenly for a perfect bake.
Step 5: Mix Batter and Dates
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones, mixing just until combined. Then stir in the softened date paste, distributing it evenly throughout the batter so every bite has delightful pockets of sticky sweetness.
Step 6: Bake Your Puddings
Divide the batter between two greased 6-ounce ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This precise timing ensures the puddings are moist but fully cooked through.
Step 7: Make the Toffee Sauce
While the puddings bake, prepare the luscious toffee sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sauce becomes smooth, rich, and bubbling—about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 8: Combine Sauce and Pudding
Once your puddings are out of the oven, poke a few holes in the tops with a fork and generously pour half of the warm toffee sauce over each pudding, letting it soak in and intensify the flavor and moisture.
How to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe
Garnishes
The classic way to top your Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe is with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a cloud of freshly whipped cream. Both add refreshing creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the warm, sticky cake and buttery sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair your sticky pudding with a cup of strong coffee or a bold black tea for a cozy, balanced dessert experience. Alternatively, a small bowl of fresh berries can add a light, tart counterpoint that brightens each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your pudding in mini glass jars layered with additional toffee sauce and crushed nuts. This makes for an impressive presentation if you’re sharing this delightful dessert for two and want to add a little extra flair to your evening.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The pudding will stay moist, and the toffee flavor will deepen as it rests.
Freezing
You can freeze the puddings before baking by covering the batter-filled ramekins tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat individual puddings gently in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or warm them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through. Be sure to reheat the toffee sauce separately on the stove to pour over the warm pudding to revive that gooey goodness.
FAQs
Can I make this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based cream alternative for the toffee sauce. The texture and flavor will remain just as deliciously comforting.
What can I use if I don’t have dates?
Dried figs or prunes make excellent substitutes, as they also offer natural sweetness and a nice chewy texture that complements the pudding.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the pudding tender and moist.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient dessert to assemble early and bake fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Why does the recipe use both baking powder and baking soda?
The combination balances the acidic dates and brown sugar while ensuring a perfect rise and tender crumb. Baking soda reacts with the acids in the batter, and baking powder provides additional lift for lightness.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with this Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two Recipe — its perfect portions, rich flavor, and luscious sauce make it an absolute joy to bake and eat. Whether you’re planning a special date night or simply want a sweet treat that feels homemade and indulgent, this recipe delivers every time. So grab those dates and get ready for a sticky, toffee-filled celebration of dessert magic.
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
Description
This Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two is a classic British dessert made with moist date-infused cake baked in ramekins and topped with a rich, buttery toffee sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe yields two individual portions with a warm, comforting flavor and a luscious sauce that soaks into the spongy pudding.
Ingredients
Cake
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- â…› tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- â…“ cup finely chopped dates (about 4–5 dates, pitted)
- 2 tbsp boiling water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toffee Sauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- â…“ cup dark brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-ounce ramekins or small baking dishes thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Soak and Mash Dates: Place the chopped dates in a small bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Allow them to soak for 5 minutes to soften, then mash with a fork or spoon until you have a thick, sticky paste. Set this aside for incorporation into the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon if using. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spice.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a tender crumb in the pudding.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar until fully combined, providing structure and flavor to the batter.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could toughen the texture.
- Incorporate Date Paste: Fold in the mashed dates evenly throughout the batter to ensure every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Fill Ramekins and Bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Prepare Toffee Sauce: While the puddings bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the dark brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and bubbly, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Soak Puddings with Sauce: After removing the puddings from the oven, poke holes in their tops with a fork and pour about half of the warm toffee sauce over each, allowing it to soak deeply into the sponge.
- Serve Warm: Serve the sticky toffee puddings warm with additional toffee sauce on the side and an optional scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake the puddings to keep them moist and tender.
- If dates are unavailable, medjool dates can be used for good sweetness and texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives.
- This recipe can be doubled for a larger group; just adjust baking time accordingly.
- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning from the hot toffee sauce.
