Sticky Toffee Pudding has always had a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I tasted it during a cozy winter dinner at a small countryside inn. It was rich, comforting, and almost magical. That moment stayed with me, and it eventually led me to discover Nigella Lawson’s version of this classic dessert. Her Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe is nothing short of heavenly, and over time, it has become one of my most cherished go-to desserts for family gatherings, festive dinners, and even quiet evenings when I crave something truly indulgent.
What I love most about Nigella’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is how perfectly balanced it is. The sponge is moist yet light, deeply flavored with dates without being overly sweet. And then there’s the luscious toffee sauce that soaks into every pore of the pudding, creating a melt-in-the-mouth experience that feels like a warm hug.
In this post, I want to take you through exactly how I make Nigella Lawson’s Sticky Toffee Pudding at home. I’ll also share some little tips that I’ve picked up along the way to make sure it turns out perfect every single time. If you love rich, soul-soothing desserts as much as I do, then this recipe will definitely win your heart too. Let’s dive into this irresistible journey of sticky, buttery goodness together.
What is Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding?
Nigella Lawson’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert featuring a moist sponge cake made primarily with dates, topped with a decadent, buttery toffee sauce. It is baked to golden perfection and served warm, often with cream, ice cream, or custard. What sets Nigella’s version apart is her attention to balance: the pudding is deeply flavorful but not cloyingly sweet, and the sauce is rich but not overwhelming.
Why you should try this recipe
You should try Nigella Lawson’s Sticky Toffee Pudding because it is a crowd-pleaser in every sense. The texture is unbelievably moist, the flavors are warm and comforting, and the toffee sauce makes every bite luxurious. It’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and elegant, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress or simply indulge yourself.
Ingredients needed to make Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
For the pudding:
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200g dried dates, chopped
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250ml boiling water
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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75g unsalted butter, softened
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100g dark brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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175g all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the toffee sauce:
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200g dark brown sugar
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200g unsalted butter
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250ml heavy cream
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instruction to make Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a baking dish.
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Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and set aside to soak.
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Cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Fold in the flour and baking powder gently.
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Stir the vanilla extract into the date mixture, then fold it into the batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the pudding bakes, make the toffee sauce by melting the butter and dark brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
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Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke small holes over the top and pour some of the sauce over it, allowing it to soak in. Serve warm with extra toffee sauce.
Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
Ingredients
For the pudding:
- 200 g dried dates chopped
- 250 ml boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 75 g unsalted butter softened
- 100 g dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 175 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the toffee sauce:
- 200 g dark brown sugar
- 200 g unsalted butter
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a baking dish.
- Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and set aside to soak.
- Cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the flour and baking powder gently.
- Stir the vanilla extract into the date mixture, then fold it into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the pudding bakes, make the toffee sauce by melting the butter and dark brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke small holes over the top and pour some of the sauce over it, allowing it to soak in. Serve warm with extra toffee sauce.
Notes
- Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this pudding even better.
- Always chop the dates finely so they melt into the batter, creating a smoother texture.
- Make sure not to overbake the sponge; it should be just cooked through to stay moist.
- When making the toffee sauce, stir constantly to prevent it from burning, and use good-quality butter and cream for the best flavor.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (approximate):Calories: 520 kcal
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Sugar: 47 g
Protein: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 200 mg
What goes well with Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky Toffee Pudding pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, softly whipped cream, or even a rich, velvety custard. Sometimes, I also love serving it with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for a little extra texture. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine alongside it takes the experience to another level.
My tips to make the best Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this pudding even better. Always chop the dates finely so they melt into the batter, creating a smoother texture. Make sure not to overbake the sponge; it should be just cooked through to stay moist. When making the toffee sauce, stir constantly to prevent it from burning, and use good-quality butter and cream for the best flavor.
Easy variations of Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
There are some delightful ways to customize this dessert. Sometimes I add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter to deepen the flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt over the toffee sauce gives it a trendy salted caramel vibe. For a nutty twist, folding chopped pecans into the batter works wonderfully.
Best way to store Nigella Lawson Sticky Toffee Pudding
To store Sticky Toffee Pudding, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream if it looks a little dry. The toffee sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge and reheated when needed.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 520 kcal
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Sugar: 47 g
Protein: 4 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 200 mg
FAQs
Can I make Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm before serving.
Can I substitute dates with something else?
Dates are essential for the authentic flavor, but prunes can be used if necessary.
Is there a gluten-free version?
You can substitute the flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar in the pudding, but the toffee sauce needs its full amount for proper consistency.
Conclusion
Making Nigella Lawson’s Sticky Toffee Pudding at home always feels like a special event for me. It reminds me of simpler times, family gatherings, and the unpretentious joy that a homemade dessert can bring to a table. Every time I pour that luscious, golden toffee sauce over the warm sponge, I’m transported back to that cozy inn where I first discovered just how magical this dessert could be.
This recipe is a beautiful example of how classic flavors, when treated with a little care and attention, can create something truly unforgettable. I love how easily it comes together, yet never fails to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are making it for a festive occasion, a casual get-together, or simply to treat yourself on a quiet evening, this Sticky Toffee Pudding promises to be a sweet triumph. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll know exactly why it holds such a special place in my heart.
