Name: Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding: A Warm British Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 250 g pitted dates, chopped (For a different flavor profile, try dried figs.); 1 tsp baking soda (Works to soften the dates during cooking.); 200 ml boiling water (Activates the baking soda.); 75 g unsalted butter, softened (Use margarine for a dairy-free option.); 150 g brown sugar (Adds sweetness and a caramel flavor.); 2 large eggs (Ensure they are at room temperature.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Can substitute with almond extract.); 175 g all-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 2 tsp baking powder (Crucial for helping the pudding rise.); a pinch salt (Balances the sweetness.); 200 g dark brown sugar (Adds richness to the sauce.); 200 ml double cream (Use evaporated milk for a lighter version.); splash of vanilla extract (Amplifies the flavor of the sauce.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of warm, melted sugar enveloping me, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia. Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Toffee Pudding has a way of whisking you back to cozy family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the enticing scent of freshly baked treats. This classic British dessert, rich with sweet dates and drenched in velvety toffee sauce, is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it the perfect solution for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply craving a comforting slice of heaven after a long day, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Curious about how such a simple mix of ingredients can create a dessert that feels so luxurious? Let’s dive into the details!

Why Is This Sticky Toffee Pudding Special?

Irresistible Warmth: There’s something magical about serving a warm pudding straight from the oven, drizzled in rich toffee sauce that hugs every morsel.

Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet dessert in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!

Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a fruity twist like apples or pears, making it uniquely yours each time.

Diet-Friendly Options: With easy swaps, you can make this dessert gluten-free or dairy-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this pudding never fails to impress your family and friends. For even more delightful dessert ideas, check out our guide on delicious homemade treats!

Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding

Pitted dates, chopped (250g) – The main sweetener that adds moisture; for a different flavor profile, try dried figs.
Baking soda (1 tsp) – Works to soften the dates during cooking, enhancing the pudding’s texture.
Boiling water (200ml) – Activates the baking soda and helps soften the dates for better incorporation.
Unsalted butter, softened (75g) – Provides richness and creates a tender crumb; use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Brown sugar (150g) – This adds sweetness and a delightful caramel flavor to the sponge, making it irresistible.
Large eggs (2) – Essential for structure and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor beautifully; can substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
All-purpose flour (175g) – Forms the base for the cake; use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
Baking powder (2 tsp) – Crucial for helping the pudding rise to fluffy perfection.
Salt (a pinch) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

For the Toffee Sauce

Dark brown sugar (200g) – Adds depth and richness to the toffee sauce, making it sumptuous.
Double cream (200ml) – Creates a luxurious sauce; alternatively, use evaporated milk for a lighter version.
Splash of vanilla extract – Amplifies the flavor of the toffee sauce, making it unforgettable.

Let’s get cooking and create the warmth of Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Toffee Pudding in your own kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1: Prep Dates
Start by chopping the pitted dates and placing them in a saucepan. Add 200ml of boiling water and 1 tsp of baking soda. Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until the dates are soft, then mash them lightly with a fork. This creates a luscious base for your Gordon Ramsay sticky toffee pudding that adds moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Make Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 75g of softened unsalted butter and 150g of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, sift in 175g of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, and a pinch of salt, gently folding it into the batter along with the mashed dates.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter and pour the sticky toffee pudding batter into it, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and springs back slightly when touched.

Step 4: Prepare Toffee Sauce
While the pudding is baking, make the toffee sauce by combining 200g of dark brown sugar, 200ml of double cream, and a generous 50g of unsalted butter in a saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring until it just reaches a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and has a rich, glossy finish that will delight your taste buds.

Step 5: Serve
Once the pudding has cooled slightly—about 10 minutes—invert it onto a serving plate. Drizzle the warm toffee sauce generously over the top, ensuring every inch is covered for that classic Gordon Ramsay sticky toffee pudding experience. Serve it warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of clotted cream to elevate your dessert to heavenly heights.

What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Toffee Pudding

Indulge in a delightful meal that wraps your senses in comfort, pairing perfectly with the sweet richness of your dessert.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture and buttery flavor beautifully complement the rich warmth of the pudding.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and parsnips add a sweet, earthy note that contrasts wonderfully with the sticky toffee.
Fresh Green Salad: Light and crisp, a salad of mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate after each sweet bite.
Buttery Biscuit Scones: Serve alongside tea for a bite-sized experience that pairs with the decadent pudding while offering a delightful crunch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: As a classic companion, the creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm gooeyness of the sticky toffee pudding.
Hot Chocolate or Coffee: A rich beverage like mocha or cappuccino enhances the indulgent experience, wrapping you in cozy warmth.

Imagine savoring the harmonious blend of flavors as you enjoy this decadent dessert, where each component plays a role in creating the perfect dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding

Fridge: Store leftover sticky toffee pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick treat!

Freezer: Freeze wrapped portions of the pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best flavor and texture.

Reheating: To enjoy the pudding warm, reheat in the microwave or gently in the oven. Drizzle with toffee sauce before serving for extra indulgence.

Make-Ahead: This pudding can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat with toffee sauce for a delightful dessert that’s quick to serve.

Expert Tips for Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding

Date Quality Matters: Use fresh, moist pitted dates for the best flavor and texture. Dried dates can lead to a dense pudding.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter that rises beautifully.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the flour, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough pudding instead of a light and fluffy one.
Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the pudding; it should come out clean. This prevents undercooked centers while baking your Gordon Ramsay sticky toffee pudding.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the pudding warm straight from the oven, drizzled with toffee sauce, and paired with creamy vanilla ice cream or clotted cream.

Make Ahead Options

Making Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Toffee Pudding ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning! You can prepare the pudding batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Ensure the mixture is well-covered to prevent drying out and maintain its delicious texture. If you prefer, bake the pudding in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pudding in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the warm toffee sauce made and stored separately, heating it gently on the stovetop before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy an effortlessly delightful dessert without the last-minute rush!

Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dessert and let your creativity shine!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Imagine the satisfaction of serving a crowd-pleasing dessert that accommodates different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!
Dairy-Free: Use margarine in place of unsalted butter and evaporated milk instead of double cream for a delightful dairy-free alternative.
This way, you can indulge in the same wonderful gooeyness without worrying about lactose.
Fruity Delight: Add in chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist that enhances both flavor and texture.
The fresh fruit brings a burst of juiciness, balancing the sweetness of the pudding perfectly.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat that adds a delightful surprise with every bite.
Imagine the rich chocolate melting into the toffee sauce — blissful!
Nutty Flavor: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to bring a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pudding.
A nutty flavor can elevate your dessert experience, grounding the sweetness of the toffee sauce.
Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic kick that complements the sweetness of the dates.
These warm spices fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma, enhancing the cozy feeling this dessert provides.
Maple Twist: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor that adds a subtle depth to the overall sweetness.
The maple syrup offers an earthly richness, making every bite feel even more comforting.
Heat It Up: For those who enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the toffee sauce to create a warm, heated contrast to the sweetness.
The unexpected heat will tantalize your taste buds, taking your dessert experience to an exciting new level!

These variations ensure that every time you make Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Toffee Pudding, you’ll have a delightful experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.

Gordon Ramsay Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of dates should I use for the pudding?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, moist pitted dates. They provide a rich sweetness and help keep the pudding moist. If you’re looking for an alternative flavor profile, dried figs can also work wonderfully.

How should I store any leftover sticky toffee pudding?
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave for a quick and convenient treat, ensuring that warm toffee sauce is drizzled over the top for that lovely gooey essence!

Can I freeze sticky toffee pudding?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap individual portions of the pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through, adding toffee sauce just before serving for that fresh-baked touch.

What if my pudding is too dense or doesn’t rise?
There’s a couple of tricks to ensure a light and airy texture! First, make sure you mix the batter just until combined after adding the flour—overmixing can lead to a dense pudding. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can inhibit rise. Checking your oven temperature with an oven thermometer might help, too, ensuring it’s properly heated to 180°C (350°F).

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
The more the merrier! To make Gordon Ramsay’s sticky toffee pudding gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends can work well without compromising the texture, so feel free to experiment until you find the blend that suits your taste!

Can pets safely eat sticky toffee pudding?
While it’s tempting to share this delicious dessert with your furry friends, it’s best to keep it to yourself. The high sugar content and ingredients like chocolate or nuts can be harmful to pets. Always stick to pet-safe treats to keep them healthy and happy!