Sticky Date Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch square baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Ice cream scoop

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish.

2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let sit for 10 minutes.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the date mixture, and mixing until just combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the pudding comes out clean.

8. While the pudding is baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Remove from heat.

9. When the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Poke several holes in the top of the pudding with a fork.

10. Pour the hot cream over the top of the pudding, allowing it to soak in.

11. Serve the sticky date pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 434
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 326mg
Sugar: 38g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- If you don't have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead.

Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Substitute the vanilla ice cream with caramel or butterscotch ice cream for a different twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the dates finely so they blend well into the batter.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can make the pudding tough.
- Serve the pudding warm for the best flavor and texture.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the pudding, place it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pudding in individual bowls or ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the pudding for a beautiful and delicious garnish.

Pairings:
Serve the pudding with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting dessert.

Suggested side dishes:
This dessert is rich and decadent on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance out the flavors.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pudding is too dry, try adding a bit more cream to the sauce.
- If the pudding is too wet, bake it for a few more minutes until it sets.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to store any leftover pudding in the refrigerator and consume it within 3 days.

Food history:
Sticky date pudding is a classic dessert that originated in Britain in the 1970s. It is made with dates, which were a popular ingredient in British baking during that time.

Flavor profiles:
This dessert is sweet, rich, and indulgent, with a warm and comforting flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Sweet, Rich, Caramelized, Moist, Creamy