Irresistibly Indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake Recipe

Name: Irresistibly Indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pitted Dates (Substitute with finely chopped prunes or raisins for different flavor.); 1 cup Boiling Water (Hydrates the dates.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Improves rise and texture.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Softened for easy mixing.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Can use coconut sugar.); ½ cup Brown Sugar (Deepens flavor profile.); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature preferred.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (High-quality recommended.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Sift before measuring for lighter texture.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Aids in leavening.); ¼ tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Primary sweetener for the sauce.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Melt gently.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Creates a silky texture.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor complexity.); ¼ tsp Salt (Elevates flavor.)

Published: February 10, 2026

by Clare

Why is Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake a must-try?

Irresistible Comfort: This cake offers a warm, cozy indulgence that instantly lifts your spirits.

Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at family gatherings or dinner parties, this dessert is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare ahead of time and enjoy a stress-free hosting experience, allowing you to savor the moment.

Versatile Serving Options: Dress it up with a drizzle of the luscious toffee sauce and a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable treat!

Nostalgic Flavor: Each bite evokes warm memories and shared laughter, making it a perfect dessert for creating new ones.

Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake Ingredients

Get ready to indulge in this comforting classic!

For the Pudding

Pitted Dates – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; for a different flavor, substitute with finely chopped prunes or raisins.
Boiling Water – Hydrates the dates for optimal texture.
Baking Soda – Improves the pudding’s rise and texture, making it light and fluffy.
Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness; you can use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the flavor profile, giving that signature toffee taste.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; at room temperature works best for even mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; consider a high-quality vanilla for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the pudding; for a lighter texture, sift before measuring.
Baking Powder – Aids in leavening for a fluffy cake.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Toffee Sauce

Brown Sugar – Primary sweetener for the luscious toffee sauce.
Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess and richness; be sure to melt it gently.
Heavy Cream – Creates a silky texture in the sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Vanilla Extract – Magnifies the flavor complexity; don’t skimp on quality.
Salt – Elevates flavor complexity, rounding out the sweetness beautifully.

With these carefully chosen ingredients, your sticky toffee pudding cake is set to be an unforgettable dessert that warms the heart!

How to Make Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

Prepare the Dates: Start by softening the chopped dates in a bowl of boiling water mixed with baking soda for about 10-15 minutes. This will create a lovely, mushy consistency perfect for mixing into the pudding.
Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined, then add the mashed date mixture and mix until it forms a consistent batter.
Bake the Pudding: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil, pour in the batter, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be a beautiful golden brown.
Prepare Toffee Sauce: While the pudding is baking, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble and Serve: Once the pudding is done, make holes all over the warm pudding using a skewer or fork. Pour half of the warm toffee sauce over the top, allowing it to soak in for that extra deliciousness. Serve it warm with additional sauce drizzled on the top, and enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if you like!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving for a delightful flavor contrast!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake?

As the scent of warm toffee cake fills the air, it’s time to ponder what delightful accompaniments to share with this indulgent treat.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, rich pudding, creating a perfect harmony of temperatures.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch, making every bite feel like a cloud of sweetness melting in your mouth.
Fresh Berries: A handful of tart raspberries or strawberries provides a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the pudding and adding a pop of color to your plate.
Crème Fraîche: The tangy creaminess of crème fraîche elevates the dessert experience, enhancing the toffee flavors while cutting through the richness of the cake.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso brings out the depth of flavors in the pudding, creating a deliciously cozy pairing.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a little chocolate sauce on top creates an even richer experience for chocolate lovers, offering a decadent twist to the traditional recipe.
Mint Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish for a refreshing finish that brightens the dish and adds a lovely aromatic element.
Caramelized Bananas: Sautéed bananas in a bit of butter and brown sugar bring another layer of richness, offering a delightful combination with the toffee cake.

How to Store and Freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

Room Temperature: Store any leftover pudding at room temperature for up to 1 day, ensuring it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: Place cooled pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Serve it warm with fresh toffee sauce for the best experience.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—simply thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or heat the entire cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, adding extra toffee sauce for enhanced flavor!

Expert Tips for Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

Use Fresh Dates: Fresh, plump dates yield the best natural sweetness and moisture. Dried dates may not provide the same texture.
Mix Gently: To maintain a light and airy texture, avoid overmixing the batter. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated.
Test for Doneness: Always check the pudding with a toothpick before removing it from the oven. It should come out clean for perfect results.
Serve Warm: For the ultimate indulgence, serve your sticky toffee pudding cake warm, drizzled with toffee sauce just before serving.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months for a sweet treat later!

Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake Variations

Feel free to make this dessert your own with these delightful twists that elevate the classic recipe!

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft pudding beautifully. The nutty flavor brings an unexpected surprise in every bite.
Flavor Boost: Substitute vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a new aroma and flavor depth. This subtle change adds a lovely nutty nuance and lightness.
Extra Sweetness: Mix in ½ cup chocolate chips for an added layer of indulgence. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers and makes the pudding even more decadent.
Tropical Twist: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for a touch of the tropics. This brings a lovely chewiness and sunny flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Spiced Version: Introduce 1 tsp of ground ginger to add warmth and a subtle kick. This flavor infusion not only enhances the pudding but makes it perfect for cozy evenings.
Fruity Surprise: Fold in diced apples or pears for a refreshing burst of fruitiness. The natural juices from the fruit keep the cake moist while adding a delightful texture.
Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before serving for a sweet-salty contrast that elevates the overall experience. This little extra touch can turn an amazing dessert into a showstopper!
Lighter Option: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of half the butter to cut down on calories while still maintaining moisture. This clever swap allows you to enjoy this comfort food while being a bit kinder to your waistline.

Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of dates should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh, plump pitted dates are best for this recipe, as they provide the optimal sweetness and moisture. If you can’t find dates, finely chopped prunes or raisins can be good alternatives, though the flavor will vary slightly.

How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your sticky toffee pudding cake, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If too many pieces remain, refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Always serve leftovers warm with fresh toffee sauce for the best experience!

Can I freeze sticky toffee pudding cake?
Very! To freeze, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

How do I know when the pudding is done baking?
Testing for doneness is easy! Insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding; it should come out clean after 30-35 minutes. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Enjoying it at just the right moment makes all the difference!

Is this sticky toffee pudding cake suitable for all dietary restrictions?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free. For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, consider substituting with gluten-free flour blends or dairy-free alternatives carefully, but be aware that the texture and flavor may slightly change.

Can I prepare the pudding in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the pudding batter a day in advance and refrigerate it, or even prepare the toffee sauce up to 3 days ahead. Just warm the sauce before serving, and pop the pudding in the oven right before you’re ready to enjoy it with friends and family.