Microwave Sticky Toffee Pudding

Updated: Feb. 26, 2025

Recipe Overview

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, divided

• 3 tablespoons heavy cream, divided

• Pinch of salt

• 2 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ cup (28 grams) all-purpose flour

• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Serving Toppings: Sour cream, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream (optional)

Preparation (10 Minutes Total)

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for 30 seconds (until fully melted). Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring gently between intervals, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture forms a smooth, glossy caramel sauce (30 seconds to 1 minute total). Set aside to thicken slightly.

Step 2: Create the Date Batter

In a 12-oz (1½ cup) microwave-safe ramekin or bowl, combine chopped dates, remaining 1 tablespoon butter, remaining 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and baking soda. Microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until butter melts. Mash dates with a fork to break down fibers and release natural sugars, creating a rich base.

Step 3: Bake the Pudding

Add flour, remaining 1 tablespoon brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the date mixture. Stir gently until just combined (do not overmix). Spread evenly in the ramekin. Microwave on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute until the top is set (center may remain slightly moist, which is ideal for stickiness).

Step 4: Serve

Dollop with sour cream, ice cream, or whipped cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce and enjoy warm.

Customer Reviews & Q&A

Review Highlights

• “This is my favorite dessert in a 10-minute version! So easy, I made it twice—once with dates, once with frozen mashed banana (still delicious, though not authentic). Look away if you’re on a diet!”

• “Wow, not a ‘mug cake’—this is sticky toffee pudding! My husband and I devoured it. So simple and rich.”

Common Questions

• Q: Can I substitute prunes for dates?

A: Dates are essential for authentic caramel flavor; prunes lack the texture and sweetness.

• Q: No microwave? Oven substitute?

A: Yes! Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25–30 minutes in a ramekin. Use the same steps; texture will be slightly less sticky but retain flavor.

• Q: Scale for 8 people?

A: Multiply ingredients by 8. Use individual ramekins (cook 1–2 minutes) or a large dish (5–7 minutes).

Pro Tips

• Use ripe Medjool dates for maximum moisture and sweetness.

• Let the caramel sauce rest to thicken—this amplifies the “sticky” texture.

• For extra indulgence, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream.

“I’m mad at myself for waiting to try this—now I can’t stop making it! It’s addictive, easy, and tastes like a classic sticky toffee pudding.”

Rating: 4.8/5 (based on user feedback)

Enjoy this decadent, quick-to-make twist on a classic dessert!