Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Special Equipment Needed:
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the date mixture until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. While the pudding is baking, prepare the chocolate sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
9. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chocolate chips and butter. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
10. Serve the warm sticky date pudding with the chocolate sauce drizzled over the top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 450
- Total fat: 23g
- Saturated fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Total carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 43g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.
- Instead of semisweet chocolate chips, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips.
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use coconut cream or almond milk.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra crunch.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the batter for a warm spice flavor.
- Top the pudding with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream instead of chocolate sauce.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to chop the dates finely so they incorporate well into the batter.
- Don't overmix the batter, or the pudding will become tough.
- Serve the pudding warm for the best texture and flavor.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the pudding, microwave it for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the pudding in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
- Dust the top of the pudding with powdered sugar before serving.
Garnishes:
- Top the pudding with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
- Garnish with fresh berries or sliced bananas.
Pairings:
- Serve the pudding with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a port or shiraz.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the pudding with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Pair with a fruit salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pudding is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter before baking.
- If the pudding is too wet, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to properly store and refrigerate any leftover pudding.
- Use caution when handling hot liquids and equipment in the kitchen.
Food History:
- Sticky date pudding is a classic dessert in Australia and New Zealand, dating back to the early 20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- The pudding is sweet and sticky, with a rich caramel flavor from the dates and brown sugar.
- The chocolate sauce adds a decadent and indulgent touch to the dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pudding warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and comforting dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Rich, Moist, Chocolatey