Sticky toffee pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. This British classic has traveled across the pond and found a warm spot in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere, including right here in Plymouth, Michigan. As part of our Christmas Guide 2024, we’re diving into this gooey, caramelized wonder that’s perfect for the holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love indulging in sweet treats, sticky toffee pudding deserves a place on your Christmas table.

What Is Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Let’s clear something up first—it’s not pudding in the American sense of the word. Sticky toffee pudding is a moist sponge cake made with dates, drenched in rich toffee sauce, and often served with whipped cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream. It’s warm, sweet, and unapologetically indulgent—exactly what you need during Michigan’s chilly December evenings.

A Brief (and Sticky) History

Sticky toffee pudding is quintessentially British, but its origins are as messy as its sauce. Some say it was born in the 1970s at the Sharrow Bay Hotel in Cumbria, England. Others claim it dates back to World War II when Canadian pilots shared a similar recipe with British hosts. Regardless of its true beginnings, one thing is clear: sticky toffee pudding has become a global favorite.

In England’s Lake District, it’s practically a culinary icon. The Cartmel Village Shop alone has sold over 10 million puddings since 1984! But you don’t need to travel across the Atlantic to enjoy it—you can make it right here in your Plymouth kitchen.

Why It’s Perfect for Christmas

Sticky toffee pudding feels like it was made for Christmas. Its warm spices and caramel flavors pair beautifully with the festive season. Plus, it’s easy to make beforehand—just reheat and serve when your guests are ready for dessert. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want a steaming plate of sticky sweetness after braving Michigan’s winter weather?

Recipe: Sticky Toffee Pudding

Here’s a simple recipe that yields 10–12 servings—perfect for sharing during your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 2 cups pitted dates
• ¾ cup dark spiced rum
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 stick butter (room temperature), plus extra for greasing
• 3 eggs (separated)

For the Toffee Sauce:

• 3 sticks butter
• 1½ cups brown sugar
• ½ cup brandy

Optional Toppings:

• Heavy cream (whipped)
• Vanilla ice cream or custard

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Work

Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Date Mixture

Combine the dates, rum, and ¾ cup water in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Once cooled, puree the mixture in a food processor until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time while mixing on low speed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture in thirds. Stir in the date puree until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Whip Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until soft peaks form. Fold them gently into the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared dish and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Toffee Sauce

While your pudding bakes:

1. Combine butter, brown sugar, brandy, and ¼ cup water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Simmer while whisking frequently until it thickens into a smooth sauce (about 15 minutes).

Assemble and Serve

Once baked:

1. Let the pudding cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Use a skewer or chopstick to poke holes all over the cake.
3. Pour half of the warm toffee sauce over the cake and let it soak in for at least 20 minutes.
4. Serve slices of pudding with extra sauce drizzled on top and your choice of whipped cream or ice cream.

Pro Tips for Plymouth Bakers

1. Substitutions: No rum? Use apple cider or orange juice instead—it’ll still taste amazing.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the pudding and sauce up to two days ahead; just reheat before serving.
3. Individual Servings: Bake in ramekins instead of one large dish for an elegant presentation.
4. Local Touch: Add Michigan-grown apples or cherries as an extra topping for some local flair!

Wrap Up Your Holidays With Sticky Toffee Pudding

This dessert is more than just food—it’s an event! Whether you’re hosting family or just treating yourself after shopping downtown Plymouth’s holiday markets, sticky toffee pudding will surely bring warmth and joy to your Christmas celebrations.

So grab your apron and get baking—because nothing says “Merry Christmas” quite like this sticky-sweet masterpiece!

Source: foodnetwork.com
Header Image Source: foodnetwork.com