Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Place the chopped dates in a bowl, cover with 1 cup boiling water, stir in the baking soda, and let stand for 10 minutes to soften.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, cream 1/4 cup of the butter with 1/2 cup of the brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4

Stir the flour into the butter mixture, then fold in the softened date mixture along with its soaking liquid until just combined.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6

While the pudding bakes, make the toffee sauce: combine the remaining 1/4 cup butter, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 7

Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened and glossy.

Step 8

Poke a few holes in the warm cake and pour half of the toffee sauce over the top, letting it soak in.

Step 9

Slice and serve warm with the remaining toffee sauce spooned over each portion.