Name: Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 cup raisins; 1/2 cup dark rum; 200g dates, chopped; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 cup boiling water; 115g unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/4 cups self-raising flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 115g unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 150ml heavy cream; 2 tbsp golden syrup

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If you love a classic dessert with a spirited twist, this Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe is everything you’ve been dreaming of and more. Imagine a rich, moist pudding gently infused with rum-soaked raisins, delivering bursts of caramelized flavor in every bite. Topped with a luscious, velvety toffee sauce, this pudding turns humble ingredients into a comforting British treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a dessert that’s as perfect for cozy nights in as it is a showstopper at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

The magic of this Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one brings its own unique charm, whether it’s the natural sweetness of dates, the deep warmth of dark rum, or the creamy richness of butter and brown sugar that make the pudding sing.

Raisins: These soak up the rum beautifully, creating juicy bursts of flavor throughout the pudding.
Dark rum: Adds depth and a subtle boozy sweetness that elevates the classic sticky toffee.
Dates, chopped: Provide natural sweetness and a signature moist texture.
Baking soda: Helps the pudding rise and gives it a tender crumb.
Boiling water: Essential to soften the dates and activate the baking soda for perfect texture.
Unsalted butter (for pudding and sauce): Brings creamy richness and the perfect mouthfeel in both components.
Brown sugar (for pudding and sauce): Offers deep caramel notes that define sticky toffee’s luscious taste.
Eggs: Bind ingredients together for structure and moisture.
Self-raising flour: Adds the necessary lift while keeping the pudding light.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, fragrant aroma.
Heavy cream (for sauce): Creates the silky texture that transforms the toffee sauce into pure indulgence.
Golden syrup (for sauce): Adds a rich, buttery sweetness that rounds out the sauce perfectly.

How to Make Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Raisins

Begin by soaking your raisins in dark rum for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses them with a boozy richness that truly makes this Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe stand out. If you have extra time, letting them soak longer will deepen the flavor even more.

Step 2: Prepare the Date Mixture

Combine the chopped dates, baking soda, and boiling water in a bowl. The boiling water softens the dates, and the baking soda starts reacting immediately, helping the pudding to rise and become wonderfully tender. Let this mixture cool slightly before moving on.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with brown sugar until the texture is pale and fluffy. This process is crucial because it aerates the mixture, resulting in a lighter pudding that still stays dense and moist.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Then fold in the vanilla extract to infuse that warm, inviting flavor throughout your batter.

Step 5: Combine Date Mixture and Soaked Raisins

Gently stir the cooled date mixture into your creamed butter and sugar, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then add in the rum-soaked raisins, folding delicately so those plump, flavor-packed gems stay intact.

Step 6: Fold in the Flour

Carefully incorporate the self-raising flour, folding it in just until no streaks remain. Overmixing here can toughen the pudding, so keep it gentle to achieve that perfect cakey softness.

Step 7: Bake Your Pudding

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean but moist. The aroma at this point is irresistible!

Step 8: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the pudding is baking, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and golden syrup in a saucepan. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens into a glossy, rich toffee that’s simply begging to be poured over the warm pudding.

Step 9: Serve It Up

Once baked, generously pour the hot toffee sauce over your Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe and get ready for a moment of pure bliss.

How to Serve Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this dessert, try adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts also adds an exciting crunch that balances the luscious textures wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs beautifully with warm custard or even a drizzle of crème anglaise. A simple pot of espresso or a hot cup of spiced tea makes the perfect companion, enhancing the dessert’s comforting, rich qualities.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a glowing caramel shard or a few whole rum-soaked raisins. You could also invert the pudding onto a plate for a rustic presentation that highlights its sticky glaze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Freezing

This pudding freezes very well before baking. Simply prepare the batter, place it in a freezer-safe dish, and cover tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or warm the whole pudding in a low oven, covering to prevent drying out. Always add extra toffee sauce after reheating to keep things gloriously sticky and moist.

FAQs

Can I omit the rum in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, simply soak the raisins in warm water or fruit juice. The pudding will still be delicious but with a milder flavor.

What makes this Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe different from traditional sticky toffee pudding?

The addition of rum-soaked raisins introduces a boozy sweetness and juicy texture that adds a new dimension to the classic sticky toffee pudding, making it more complex and indulgent.

Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Yes, feel free to experiment with sultanas, chopped dried cherries, or even cranberries soaked in rum. Each offers a slightly different taste and texture that can be just as delightful.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Definitely! This Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe contains no meat products and is perfect for a vegetarian diet.

How do I know when the pudding is fully baked?

The pudding is ready when the top turns a beautiful golden color, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean but still moist. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Rum Raisin Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe has quickly become a personal favorite for those moments when you want a dessert that’s both comforting and a little bit special. Rich, sticky, and bursting with boozy sweetness, it effortlessly brings warmth to any table. I truly hope you’ll give it a try soon and enjoy every decadent bite as much as I do.