Authentic Sticky Date Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish.

In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes.

In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.

Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

Stir in the soaked dates, including remaining liquid, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

While the pudding is baking, prepare caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1.25 cup brown sugar, 0.5 cup heavy cream, and 0.5 cup butter. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Once the sticky date pudding has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Cut the pudding into individual servings and serve warm. Drizzle each serving generously with caramel sauce and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy the sticky date pudding while it's still warm.