Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Paul Hollywood’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is a rich, indulgent dessert featuring a moist, date-filled sponge cake soaked in a luscious toffee sauce. This classic British dessert is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth and is often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh cream.

What is Paul Hollywood’s Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Paul Hollywood’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is a soft, date-based sponge cake served with a rich toffee sauce. The dates in the sponge add a caramel-like sweetness, which complements the buttery toffee sauce. This dessert is traditionally baked in a rectangular dish and served warm, making it ideal for a cozy night in or special gatherings.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Classic British Dessert: A must-try for fans of British cuisine.
• Rich and Indulgent: Perfect for special occasions or when you crave a comforting dessert.
• Moist and Flavorful Sponge: Dates give the sponge a unique, deliciously moist texture.
• Easy To Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Great for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients Needed to Make Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

For the Sponge Cake

• 225g Pitted Dates (chopped): Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• 300ml Boiling Water: Softens the dates.
• 1 tsp Baking Soda: Helps the dates break down and gives the cake a soft texture.
• 85g Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness to the cake.
• 140g Light Brown Sugar: Sweetens the sponge and adds a caramel-like flavor.
• 2 Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• 200g Self-Raising Flour: Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor.

For the Toffee Sauce

• 200g Light Brown Sugar: Sweetens the sauce and adds a caramel flavor.
• 100g Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, buttery sauce.
• 200ml Double Cream: Makes the sauce creamy and smooth.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the toffee sauce.

Instructions to Make Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dates

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease a baking dish with butter. In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water, then add the baking soda. Stir and let sit for about 10 minutes to soften the dates.

Step 2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 4. Add the Flour and Date Mixture

Fold in the self-raising flour until just combined. Gently stir in the softened date mixture, including the liquid, until fully incorporated.

Step 5. Bake the Pudding

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6. Make the Toffee Sauce

While the pudding is baking, prepare the toffee sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the light brown sugar, butter, and double cream. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 7. Serve the Sticky Toffee Pudding

Once the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Pour some of the warm toffee sauce over the pudding, reserving extra sauce for serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or extra toffee sauce.

What Goes Well With Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Adds a cool, creamy contrast.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, complements the richness of the pudding.
• Fresh Berries – Add a refreshing tartness.
• Custard – A warm, creamy sauce to serve with the pudding.
• Toasted Pecan or Walnuts – Adds crunch and complement the caramel flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Sticky Toffee Pudding

For a perfect sticky toffee pudding, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh, Soft Dates – For the best texture, use soft, moist dates.
• Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the pudding dense; fold gently to keep it light.
• Make Sauce in Advance – Prepare the toffee sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.
• Serve Warm – Sticky toffee pudding is best enjoyed warm for the ideal texture and flavor.
• Pour Sauce Just Before Serving – Pouring the sauce over just before serving keeps the pudding from becoming soggy.

Easy Variations of Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

Try these variations for unique flavors:

• Add a Splash of Whisky – For a boozy twist, add a bit of whisky to the toffee sauce.
• Use Dark Muscovado Sugar – Adds a deeper, richer flavor to the pudding and sauce.
• Add Nuts – Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Chocolate Sauce Twist – Add a little melted chocolate to the toffee sauce for a chocolaty flavor.
• Add Orange Zest – Add a hint of citrus freshness.

Best Practices to Store Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the Fridge – Thaw frozen pudding in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Best Practices to Reheat Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Oven Reheat – Place in a preheated 150°C (300°F) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave Individual Portions – Heat for 30-45 seconds on low, then add extra toffee sauce if desired.
• Serve Freshly Reheated – Enjoy it right after reheating for the best texture.

How Can I Make Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar – Use less sugar in the pudding and toffee sauce.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Replace part of the self-raising flour for added fiber.
• Skip the Toffee Sauce – Serve with Greek yogurt or whipped cream instead for a lighter topping.
• Add Fresh Fruit – Garnish with berries to add natural sweetness.
• Use Low-Fat Cream – Substitute double cream with a lighter version in the sauce.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 45g

FAQs

Can I Make Paul Hollywood Sticky Toffee Pudding Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the sticky toffee pudding a day ahead. Bake the sponge, cool it, and store it covered in the fridge. Prepare the toffee sauce separately and reheat both just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How Do I Keep Sticky Toffee Pudding Moist?

To keep the pudding moist, avoid overbaking it, as this can dry out the sponge. After baking, cover with a portion of warm toffee sauce, which helps maintain moisture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I Freeze Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Yes, sticky toffee pudding freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Dates in Sticky Toffee Pudding?

If you don’t have dates, you can substitute with prunes or figs, as both have a similar sweetness and texture. Chop them finely and follow the same instructions as for dates.

Final Words

Paul Hollywood’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is a classic British dessert that’s comforting, rich, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. The soft, date-filled sponge and warm toffee sauce make it a truly indulgent treat that’s ideal for cold days or special occasions. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra sauce and enjoy each delicious bite!

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• Mary Berry Marzipan
• Mary Berry Dundee Cake
• Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake
• Mary Berry Raspberry and White Chocolate Cake

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