Boozy Sticky Date Pudding

classic dessert with a delightful twist, this Boozy Sticky Date Pudding combines the rich sweetness of dates with a hint of liqueur to create a luxurious treat. Moist, indulgent, and topped with a luscious sauce, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests with something truly decadent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe elevates the traditional sticky date pudding by introducing a boozy element that enhances the depth of flavor. The dates provide natural sweetness, while the sauce adds a velvety finish that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a stand-alone dessert, it is guaranteed to become a favorite for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pitted dates, chopped

• Boiling water

• Baking soda

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Vanilla extract

• A splash of brandy, whiskey, or dark rum (for the pudding and/or sauce)

• Heavy cream

• More brown sugar (for the sauce)

• Additional butter (for the sauce)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven and lightly grease a baking dish or pudding molds.

2. Soak the chopped dates in boiling water and stir in the baking soda. Let them sit until softened.

3. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.

4. Fold in the flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, and soaked dates with their liquid.

5. Stir in a splash of your chosen spirit for a boozy flavor.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. While baking, prepare the sauce by heating cream, butter, brown sugar, and a dash of your chosen liqueur until smooth and slightly thickened.

8. Once the pudding is baked, poke a few holes in the top and pour over some sauce to soak in.

9. Serve warm with extra sauce drizzled on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe typically serves 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: about 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the spirit with rum, bourbon, or Irish cream for different flavor profiles.

• Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for texture.

• Make it non-alcoholic by omitting the booze and adding extra vanilla or a splash of strong coffee.

• Serve with custard, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream instead of the sauce for a lighter finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–40 seconds, or reheat the entire pudding in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. The sauce can be stored separately in a sealed container in the fridge for 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding in advance and reheat before serving. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored separately.

What alcohol works best in this recipe?

Brandy, whiskey, rum, or Irish cream complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe alcohol-free?

Yes, simply omit the alcohol and use extra vanilla extract or a splash of strong brewed coffee.

Can I freeze sticky date pudding?

Yes, once cooled, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Do I need to soak the dates?

Yes, soaking softens the dates and ensures a smooth texture in the pudding.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I bake this pudding in individual ramekins?

Yes, baking in smaller portions makes for a beautiful presentation and slightly reduces baking time.

How do I know when the pudding is fully cooked?

A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be firm to the touch.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and cream with coconut cream.

What is the best way to serve this dessert?

Warm, with plenty of sauce poured over the top, and optionally served with ice cream, custard, or whipped cream.

Conclusion

Boozy Sticky Date Pudding is a delightful twist on a beloved classic. With its moist texture, rich caramel-like sauce, and the warming kick of liqueur, it is the perfect indulgent dessert for gatherings and special moments. Simple to prepare yet impressive on the table, it is sure to become a recipe you return to time and again.

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