Hairy Bikers' Ultimate Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe: A Deliciously Sweet Indulgence

The Hairy Bikers are known for their hearty, comforting meals and indulgent desserts, and their Ultimate Sticky Toffee Pudding is no exception! This beloved British classic is the epitome of sweet indulgence, characterized by its rich sponge cake, sweet toffee sauce, and creamy vanilla ice cream. In this blog post, we’ll explore the recipe for this delightful dessert, giving you tips, tricks, and variations to make your sticky toffee pudding the best it can be! 🍰

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The Magic of Sticky Toffee Pudding ✨

Sticky toffee pudding has been a staple in British cuisine for decades. Originating from the Lake District, it features a moist date sponge cake drenched in a luscious toffee sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dessert truly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need 📋

Creating the Ultimate Sticky Toffee Pudding requires a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Sponge:

  • 200g of dates, pitted and chopped
  • 250ml of boiling water
  • 1 tsp of baking soda
  • 100g of unsalted butter, softened
  • 150g of light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 200g of self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp of vanilla extract

• For the Toffee Sauce:

  • 200g of light brown sugar
  • 100g of unsalted butter
  • 250ml of double cream
  • A pinch of salt

Note: “For the best results, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking.”

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Step-by-Step Instructions 🥄

Follow these simple steps to whip up the Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Sticky Toffee Pudding:

1. Prepare the Dates

Start by placing the chopped dates in a bowl, then pour the boiling water over them. Add the baking soda and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps to soften the dates and creates a wonderful base for the pudding.

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2. Make the Sponge Mix

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Then, fold in the self-raising flour, vanilla extract, and the date mixture until everything is well combined.

3. Bake the Pudding

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (around 20 cm) and pour the batter into it. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

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4. Prepare the Toffee Sauce

While the pudding is baking, you can prepare the toffee sauce. In a saucepan, combine the light brown sugar, unsalted butter, double cream, and a pinch of salt. Cook over low heat until the sugar has dissolved, then bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Serving Suggestions 🍦

Once your pudding is baked and your toffee sauce is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert:

• Serve warm with a generous drizzle of toffee sauce. 🍯
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of clotted cream on top for extra richness. 🍨
• For a twist, add some chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast. 🥜

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Tips for Perfect Sticky Toffee Pudding 🌟

To ensure that your sticky toffee pudding turns out perfectly every time, here are some useful tips:

• Use Fresh Dates: Fresh dates will give your pudding the best flavor and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense pudding.
• Test for Doneness: Each oven is different, so check your pudding a few minutes before the recommended baking time. It should be springy to the touch and a skewer should come out clean.

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Measurement</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Dates</td> <td>200g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Butter</td> <td>100g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Brown Sugar</td> <td>150g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Self-Raising Flour</td> <td>200g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Double Cream</td> <td>250ml</td> </tr> </table>

Important Note: “For a variation, you can also try adding some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mix for a warmer flavor profile.”

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Conclusion 🍽️

The Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Sticky Toffee Pudding is a dessert that embodies comfort and indulgence. With its soft sponge soaked in rich toffee sauce, it's a treat that will leave you craving more. Whether you enjoy it at a special occasion or just as a midweek pick-me-up, this pudding is sure to impress! Happy baking! 🎉