Imagine a dessert so indulgent, so rich, and so satisfying that it transports you straight to a cozy English cottage with every bite. That’s the magic of Mary Berry’s Sticky Toffee Pudding. This classic British dessert is a heavenly combination of moist sponge cake, drenched in a luscious toffee sauce that’s both warm and comforting.
Serving a table of 6-8 guests, this recipe is perfect for those moments when you want to impress yet provide a sense of homely warmth. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to create this masterpiece, but every second spent will be worth the wait.
What is Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding?
In essence, Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding is a decadent dessert that features a moist date-infused sponge cake, fully soaked with a rich, buttery toffee sauce. It’s the kind of dessert that promises a taste of nostalgia and luxury in every spoonful.
Other Pudding Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: Despite its luxurious taste, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
- Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, be it a festive celebration or a casual Sunday dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to delight guests of all ages with its timeless charm.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Dates (200g / 7 oz): Pitted and chopped, they are the soul of the pudding, imparting natural sweetness and a unique texture.
- Boiling Water (250ml / 8.8 oz): To soften the dates and help them meld seamlessly into the batter.
- Baking Soda (1 tsp): Reacts with the acidic date mixture to give the cake its rise.
- Unsalted Butter (85g / 3 oz): For that rich, buttery flavor in both the cake and the sauce.
- Granulated Sugar (170g / 6 oz): To sweeten the deal.
- Eggs (2 large): They bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A dash of vanilla elevates the flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (175g / 6.2 oz): The foundation of the pudding’s structure.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise to the occasion.
- Salt (a pinch): Just a touch to balance the sweetness.
Equipment
- Oven: Preheated to 180°C (350°F).
- Baking Dish: A medium-sized one will do nicely.
- Saucepan: For concocting the toffee sauce.
- Mixing Bowls: Combine your ingredients.
- Whisk & Spatula: For mixing and folding the batter.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding
Step 1:Preparing the Date Mixture
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking.
- Soften the Dates: Place the chopped dates in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them and add the baking soda. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to soften the dates, which is crucial for the perfect pudding texture.
Step 2: Making the Batter
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use a mixer to cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency.
- Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for that hint of aromatic sweetness.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt together.
- Mix It All Together: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture. Now, add the softened date mixture and stir everything until it’s well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Baking the Pudding
- Pour into Baking Dish: Grease your baking dish and pour the batter into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding feels firm when gently pressed and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Making the Toffee Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar while the pudding is baking.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
- Pour Over the Pudding: Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven. Immediately pour the warm toffee sauce over the top, allowing it to seep into the sponge.
- Serve with a Smile: Let the pudding rest for a few minutes to fully absorb the sauce, then serve it warm and enjoy the delightful reactions of your guests.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Yorkshire Puddings?
- Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the toffee flavor with a light drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Salted Caramel Ice Cream: For those who love a sweet and salty combination.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pecans for added texture.
- Warm Custard: A pour of traditional warm custard makes it extra comforting.
- Coffee: Serve with a cup of strong coffee to complement the sweetness.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Soak Dates in Advance: Soak the dates even longer if you have time, for an even richer flavor.
- Bake Evenly: Rotate the baking dish halfway through baking for an even rise and color.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the pudding immediately after pouring the toffee sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the sauce slightly.
Variations of Mary Berry Yorkshire Puddings
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch.
- Chocolate Twist: Stir in some chocolate chips for a chocolatey variation.
- Coffee Flavor: Infuse the toffee sauce with a shot of espresso for a sophisticated touch.
How to Store Mary Berry Yorkshire Puddings Leftovers
Ensure your Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding stays fresh with proper storage techniques.
- Airtight Container: Transfer any leftover pudding into an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor.
- Refrigeration: Store the pudding in the refrigerator for optimal freshness and longevity.
- Labeling: Label the container with the date to keep track of its shelf life.
- Consume Promptly: Enjoy the leftovers within 3 days for the best taste and texture.
How to Reheat Mary Berry Yorkshire Puddings Leftovers
Bring back the warmth and indulgence of your Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding leftovers with these reheating methods.
- Microwave Method: Place individual portions in the microwave and heat on high for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Oven Option: For a crispier texture, reheat the pudding in the oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Once reheated, serve the pudding immediately for that freshly baked taste.
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
Can I make Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time?
You can absolutely prepare Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time! Simply bake the pudding according to the recipe, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and enjoy!
How do I know when Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding is done baking?
To ensure your Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding is perfectly baked, look for visual cues and test the pudding’s doneness with a toothpick. The pudding should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched. Insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the pudding is ready to be removed from the oven.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe?
While the classic Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe is delicious as is, you can certainly experiment with ingredient substitutions to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives for butter and cream, or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just be mindful of any adjustments needed for texture and flavor, and enjoy customizing the recipe to your liking!
Can I make Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding without eggs?
Yes, you can make a delicious egg-free version of Mary Berry Sticky Toffee Pudding by using a suitable egg substitute. Options such as mashed banana, applesauce, or commercial egg replacers can be used to bind the ingredients together. Experiment with different substitutes to find the one that works best for your dietary needs and preferences.
Final Words
In wrapping up, Mary Berry’s Sticky Toffee Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any table. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this pudding is a perfect choice. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!