Classic Sticky Toffee Dessert (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pudding Ingredients

01 - 200g pitted dates, chopped
02 - 240ml boiling water
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 125g all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
06 - ¼ teaspoon salt
07 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 115g unsalted butter, softened
09 - 150g packed brown sugar
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Toffee Sauce

12 - 115g unsalted butter
13 - 200g packed brown sugar
14 - 240ml heavy cream
15 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Chop the pitted dates and place them in a bowl. Pour boiling water over the dates and add baking soda. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to soften.
02 - Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
03 - In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
04 - In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
05 - Add the softened date mixture, including the liquid, to the butter mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
06 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
07 - In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Cook until smooth and combined, then add the vanilla extract.
08 - Serve warm pudding drizzled with toffee sauce. Optionally, pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

# Notes:

01 - For added flavor, consider mixing in a splash of rum or bourbon into the toffee sauce.
02 - This pudding can be made ahead of time and reheated; it tastes even better the next day!