Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then you will absolutely adore these Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two. Imagine rich, gooey chocolate puddings bursting with the sweetness of sticky toffee, all crafted just for two people to enjoy together. This classic treat is transformed with an added depth of chocolate, making each bite luscious, comforting, and perfectly indulgent. Whether it’s a date night or a quiet weekend, this recipe promises a truly special dessert experience that feels both cozy and celebratory.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the natural sweetness and texture of Medjool dates to the rich butter and cocoa powder that elevate the flavor and ensure that perfect sticky toffee texture and irresistibly moist crumb.

• Medjool dates (1/2 cup, pitted & chopped): These add natural sweetness and a soft, sticky texture that forms the pudding’s foundation.
• Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Helps tenderize the dates and balances the acidity for lightness.
• Hot milk (1/4 cup): Vital for soaking the dates to make them pliable and blend smoothly into the batter.
• Cocoa powder (1 tbsp): Adds deep chocolate richness and dark color to the puddings and sauce.
• Hot water (1 tbsp): Used to help dissolve the cocoa powder completely for a smooth, intense chocolate taste.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, softened): Brings a creamy richness that enhances the moistness of the pudding.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup for pudding + 2 tbsp for sauce): Provides caramel notes essential to that classic toffee flavor.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweet warmth.
• Egg (1 large): Binds everything together while contributing to a tender crumb.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): The base that holds the pudding’s structure.
• Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Helps the pudding rise gently for a light, springy texture.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the richness.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup for sauce): Creates the decadently smooth and luscious chocolate toffee sauce.
• Dark chocolate chips (1/4 cup): Melt into the sauce for a deep, velvety finish.
• Salted butter (2 tbsp for sauce): Adds buttery richness and slight saltiness to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla ice cream (for serving): The perfect cool companion to hot puddings, adding contrast and creaminess.

How to Make Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two

Step 1: Prepare the Puddings

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your ramekins to prevent sticking. The magic begins with soaking the chopped dates in hot milk combined with baking soda; this softens them up beautifully and creates that classic toffee texture once baked. Next, mix cocoa powder with hot water to form a rich, smooth chocolate paste – this intensifies the chocolate flavor. Then, beat in the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until everything becomes deliciously creamy. Incorporate the mashed date mixture and stir in the egg for structure. Finally, gently sift your flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into the bowl, folding just until combined to keep the puddings tender and moist. Divide this luscious batter evenly into your ramekins, and get ready to bake!

Step 2: Bake

Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for about 34 to 40 minutes. You want to see the centers set but still retain a slight jiggle, ensuring that irresistibly gooey texture we all adore. Once baked, allow the puddings to cool just a little – this makes them easier to handle but keeps them warm enough to soak up the sauce perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Sauce

While your puddings bake, whisk together the heavy cream, dark chocolate chips, salted butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and thickened. This luscious sauce is what turns these puddings into a truly indulgent treat, dripping that rich chocolate toffee goodness over every bite.

Step 4: Serve

To serve, invert each pudding onto a warm plate so that all the pudding’s edges are revealed, then generously drizzle the warm chocolate sauce over the top. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside adds a cool, mellow partner to balance the sweet warmth. It’s an unbeatable combination that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two

Garnishes

Although the classic vanilla ice cream is the perfect accompaniment, why not try a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts? They add a lovely crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth pudding. A few fresh raspberries or a dusting of cocoa powder on top also brighten up the presentation and add a fruity note.

Side Dishes

These puddings are quite rich, so light, refreshing sides work best. Think along the lines of a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette for balance if you’re serving after dinner. Or simply enjoy them as the grand finale without any sides – sometimes simplicity is all that’s needed to savor a perfect dessert for two.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of ramekins, you can try individual mini cast-iron skillets or small oven-safe bowls for a rustic feel. Layer the sauce inside the ramekins before pouring in the batter for a molten-toffee surprise. For a truly dreamy presentation, serve the puddings in elegant glass jars or trifle cups with layers of whipped cream for extra glam.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing much of their charm, although these puddings are best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked batter in ramekins, covered well with cling film and foil, for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual. The cooked puddings themselves freeze well too if wrapped tightly, but the texture is always best when freshly baked.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave briefly in short bursts to avoid drying out. Warm the chocolate sauce separately, then pour over the puddings just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I make Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two without dates?

While dates are traditional and add a lovely natural sweetness and moist texture, you can substitute with figs or prunes. However, the flavor and texture will be slightly different, so dates are recommended for the authentic experience.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap dairy milk, butter, and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan butter, and coconut cream. The puddings will still be delicious, though the sauce may have a slightly different richness.

How do I know when the puddings are done?

Look for puddings with set edges and tops that spring back slightly when touched but still jiggle gently in the center. This indicates they are perfectly cooked for that sticky, gooey interior.

Can I prepare this recipe for more than two people?

Yes! Simply scale the ingredients proportionally and bake in individual ramekins or a larger dish. Just adjust the baking time if using a bigger dish to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best way to serve the sauce if I’m making it ahead?

Make the chocolate sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Gently reheat it over low heat or in the microwave before serving, stirring occasionally to bring back its smooth texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing Chocolate Sticky Toffee Puddings for Two. This recipe combines comforting tradition with the richness of chocolate, creating a dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite. I can’t encourage you enough to make these puddings when you want to treat yourself and someone you love. Warm, gooey, and utterly decadent, they’re the perfect way to end any day with sweetness and delight.