Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce
Introduction
Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce is a rich and indulgent dessert that embodies the warmth and comfort of classic Continental cuisine. With its moist and flavorful cake made from sweet dates, and the luscious, gooey butterscotch sauce drizzled generously over the top, this dish is sure to please your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a special occasion, this pudding is an irresistible finale to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (pitted and roughly chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1/2 cup |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour (Maida) | 3/4 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1 cup |
| Butter (cubed) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh cream | 1-1/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract or Butterscotch Essence | 1 teaspoon |
| Walnuts or pecans (optional) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 57 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 40 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Servings
- Servings: 5
- Cuisine: Continental
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Date Mixture:
Begin by taking the chopped dates and milk in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, promptly remove it from the heat. Stir in the baking soda and mix well until the dates start to break down. Set the saucepan aside and allow the mixture to cool for about 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. -
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a deep mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and the first portion of brown sugar (1/2 cup). Using an electric whisk, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. -
Combine with Dates:
Once the date mixture has cooled, gently fold it into the creamed butter and sugar. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors. -
Add Dry Ingredients:
Sift together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon powder, and salt, and gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is well combined, being careful not to over-mix. -
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). While the oven is heating, grease your ramekins or desired baking molds with a little butter to ensure easy release after baking. -
Bake the Pudding:
Spoon the pudding mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the pudding comes out clean. -
Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce:
For the butterscotch sauce, combine the cubed butter, the remaining brown sugar (1 cup), fresh cream, and vanilla extract in a medium heavy-based saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until all the ingredients are well combined and the sugar has dissolved. -
Thicken the Sauce:
Increase the heat to high and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 7-8 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove the pan from the heat and set the butterscotch sauce aside to cool slightly. -
Assemble and Serve:
Once the sticky date puddings are done baking, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully invert the ramekins onto a serving plate to release the puddings. Generously smother each pudding with warm butterscotch sauce, allowing it to cascade down the sides. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle crumbled walnuts or pecans on top, if desired. -
Enjoy!
Serve the Sticky Date Pudding warm, accompanied by additional butterscotch sauce on the side for those who want an extra drizzle. This dessert is perfect for indulging after a hearty meal or for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Conclusion
Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce is not just a dessert; it is an experience that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness of this timeless classic!
