Description
This Sticky Orange Date Pudding is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dates with a zesty orange twist and crunchy toasted walnuts. Baked to perfection and topped with a warm, sticky orange syrup, it’s a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding
- 200g (1 1/3 cups) chopped pitted dates
- 240ml (1 cup) boiling water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150g (3/4 cup) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 190g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 90g (3/4 cup) toasted walnuts, chopped
Orange Syrup
- 120ml (1/2 cup) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 100g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Soak Dates: Combine the chopped pitted dates with boiling water and baking soda in a medium bowl. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to soften the dates and activate the soda.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender pudding.
- Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the zest of one large orange to infuse citrus aroma.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Fold these dry ingredients gently into the wet batter until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Incorporate Dates and Walnuts: Gently stir in the softened dates along with their soaking liquid and the chopped toasted walnuts, distributing them evenly through the batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish and pour the batter into it, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake the Pudding: Bake the pudding in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Make Orange Syrup: While the pudding bakes, prepare the sticky orange syrup by combining freshly squeezed orange juice, brown sugar, unsalted butter, and orange zest in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Finish and Serve: Once the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the warm orange syrup evenly over the top. Let it soak for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve warm for a delightful dessert experience.
Notes
- Ensure that the dates are thoroughly chopped to evenly distribute their flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a tender crumb.
- To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
- The pudding can be served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
