Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two: A warm British dessert made simple for home kitchens

Published: 4 Feb 2026

Sticky toffee pudding for two is the perfect dessert when you want something warm, rich, and comforting without making a large batch. This recipe gives you all the classic flavors of a traditional British dessert, but in a small, easy recipe for 2. The pudding stays soft and moist, and the toffee sauce turns sticky and glossy when poured on top.

This guide is written for home cooks. You can follow it step by step with confidence. Each part is explained clearly, using simple words and practical tips. By the end, you will have a dessert for two that feels special and homemade.

If you enjoy warm desserts like this, do check the homepage for more food recipes made for everyday kitchens.

Table of Content

What Is Sticky Toffee Pudding?

Sticky toffee pudding is a classic British dessert. It is not a pudding in the soft custard sense. In British cooking, “pudding” often means dessert. This dish is a soft sponge cake made with dates. It is served hot and covered with a rich toffee sauce.

The dates melt into the batter as it bakes. This gives the cake a deep flavor and a moist texture. The warm toffee sauce soaks into the sponge and makes it sticky and rich. That is where the name comes from.

This version focuses on sticky toffee pudding for two. It keeps everything people love about the traditional recipe but avoids leftovers.

Why This Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe Is Perfect for Two

Many dessert recipes make large portions. That works for parties, but not always for home cooking. This dessert for two solves that problem.

You get:

Freshly baked pudding every time
No waste or extra storage
A perfect choice for date nights or quiet evenings

This mini sticky toffee pudding also bakes faster. You can enjoy a warm dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. It is simple, reliable, and full of flavor.

Ingredients You Will Need

Good ingredients make a big difference in this recipe. Everything listed here is easy to find and used in many home kitchens.

For the Sticky Toffee Pudding

This sponge is soft, moist, and full of flavor.

Medjool dates, chopped
These dates are soft and sweet. They give the pudding its classic taste.
Hot water
This softens the dates and helps them blend into the batter.
Unsalted butter, softened
Butter adds richness and keeps the sponge tender.
Brown sugar
This gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Egg yolk
One yolk is enough for structure and richness in a recipe for 2.
Vanilla extract
Adds warmth and balance to the flavor.
All-purpose flour
This forms the base of the sponge.
Baking soda
Helps the pudding rise and softens the dates.
Baking powder
Gives extra lift so the sponge stays light.
Milk
Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
A pinch of salt
Balances the sweetness.

For the Toffee Sauce

This sauce is the heart of sticky pudding. It should be smooth and glossy.

Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Heavy cream
Cream gives the sauce a rich and silky finish.
Vanilla extract
A small pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

These are not required, but they make the dessert extra special.

Vanilla ice cream
Fresh cream
Warm custard

Kitchen Equipment You Will Need

You do not need special tools for this recipe. Simple equipment works well.

Two small ramekins or oven-safe bowls
One mixing bowl
One small saucepan
Whisk or spoon
Baking tray to place ramekins on
Oven

Using small ramekins helps the pudding bake evenly and keeps portions perfect for two.

Step-by-Step Recipe Method

This is the core section of the recipe. Follow each step in order. Read through once before you start cooking.

5 Steps Recipe Formula

Prepare the Dates

Dates are the key ingredient in sticky toffee pudding. Preparing them well gives the best texture.

Start by placing the chopped dates in a small bowl. Pour hot water over them until they are fully covered. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. During this time, the dates soften and break down slightly.

Once soft, gently mash them with a fork. You do not need a smooth paste. Small pieces are fine. Set the bowl aside. The soaking water should stay with the dates. It adds moisture and flavor to the batter.

Make the Pudding Batter

Take a mixing bowl and add the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. This step helps trap air and keeps the sponge light.

Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Mix again until fully combined.

Now add the softened dates with all their liquid. Stir gently. The mixture may look uneven at this stage. That is normal.

In a separate small bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Pour in the milk slowly while mixing.

Stir until just combined. Do not overmix. A few small lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the pudding dense.

Bake the Sticky Toffee Pudding

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Lightly grease the ramekins with butter. Divide the batter evenly between the two ramekins. Place them on a baking tray. This makes handling easier and catches any spills.

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes. The pudding should rise and look set on top. Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Remove from the oven and let the puddings rest for 5 minutes. They will continue to set slightly as they cool.

Make the Toffee Sauce

While the pudding bakes, prepare the toffee sauce.

Place a small saucepan on low heat. Add the butter and brown sugar. Stir gently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. The mixture may bubble. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.

Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes. It should thicken slightly and look glossy. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and salt.

If the sauce thickens too much, add a small splash of warm cream and stir.

Serve the Dessert Warm

Sticky toffee pudding is best served warm.

Place each pudding on a plate or serve directly in the ramekin. Spoon generous amounts of warm toffee sauce over the top. Let it soak into the sponge.

Add ice cream or cream if you like. The cold topping contrasts beautifully with the warm dessert.

Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips for the Best Sticky Toffee Pudding

Small details can make a big difference in this sticky pudding.

Soften the Dates Properly

Always soak the dates in hot water. This step keeps the sponge moist and soft. Dry dates will make the pudding heavy.

Do Not Overbake

Check the pudding early. Overbaking removes moisture. The center should stay soft.

Keep the Sauce Warm

Toffee sauce thickens as it cools. Reheat gently before serving so it pours easily.

Use Good Quality Brown Sugar

Brown sugar gives depth and richness. It is essential for true toffee pudding flavor.

Easy Variations to Try

Once you master this recipe, you can adjust it to suit your taste.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
Mix in a few chocolate chips for a richer dessert
Use orange zest for a fresh twist
Make it dairy-free using plant-based butter and cream

These small changes keep the recipe exciting while staying true to classic British desserts.

When to Serve Sticky Toffee Pudding for Two

This is a perfect warm dessert for many occasions.

Romantic dinners
Weekend treats
Cold evenings
Small celebrations

Because it is a dessert for two, it feels personal and thoughtful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can bake the pudding earlier in the day. Reheat gently in the oven before serving. Make the sauce fresh or reheat slowly.

How do I store leftovers?

This recipe is made for two, so leftovers are rare. If needed, store covered in the fridge for up to one day.

Can I freeze sticky toffee pudding?

Freezing is not recommended for the best texture. Fresh pudding tastes better.

Final Thoughts

Sticky toffee pudding for two is a dessert that brings comfort and joy. It is rich, warm, and deeply satisfying. This recipe for 2 keeps things simple while delivering classic flavor.

Try this recipe at home and enjoy every bite. If you loved it, explore the homepage for more food recipes that are easy, comforting, and made for real kitchens.