Christmas is a time of togetherness, warmth, and indulgence—when kitchens come alive with the scent of cinnamon, caramel, and spices, and tables are adorned with festive delights. For many, the holiday season is incomplete without a rich, comforting dessert to close out a celebratory meal. Among these classics, sticky toffee pudding stands as a favorite, offering the perfect combination of gooey sweetness, deep caramel flavors, and a satisfyingly moist texture. But if you’re living gluten-free, you may have wondered: can this timeless dessert still be part of your holiday tradition? The answer is a resounding yes!
This gluten-free sticky toffee pudding recipe is proof that dietary restrictions don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or texture. Made with love, carefully selected gluten-free ingredients, and a touch of holiday magic, it’s every bit as indulgent as its traditional counterpart. Whether you’re new to a gluten-free lifestyle or an experienced baker seeking inspiration, this recipe will quickly become a beloved centerpiece of your Christmas menu.
Sticky toffee pudding’s roots are deeply British, and its origins are a story of humble beginnings. Born in the mid-20th century, it has grown into a global favourite thanks to its simplicity and universal appeal. Traditionally, the dish is made with dates, lending it natural sweetness and a soft, dense crumb. This gluten-free adaptation keeps all the essential elements intact, while using gluten-free flours to achieve a pudding that’s just as tender and delicious as the original.
But this recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s an invitation to create cherished memories. Picture the joy of serving this pudding to your loved ones as the centrepiece of your holiday table, its rich, golden toffee sauce glistening under the twinkling lights. Imagine the warmth of laughter as everyone takes their first bite, savoring the indulgent flavors and marveling that something gluten-free could taste so good. This is what Christmas is all about: sharing, savoring, and celebrating the small moments that make life so sweet.
As we dive into this recipe, you’ll discover helpful tips for achieving perfect results, whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro. From selecting the right gluten-free flours to mastering the art of the toffee sauce, I’ll guide you step by step to ensure success.
So, let’s bring a little extra sweetness to your Christmas season. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a grand holiday feast, this gluten-free sticky toffee pudding will delight your guests and remind them that even the simplest of dishes can become extraordinary when made with care. Ready to get started? Let’s make your holiday table shine with this irresistible dessert!
Here are some tips to help you perfect your gluten-free sticky toffee pudding and make it the star of your Christmas dessert table:
1. Choose the Right Gluten-Free Flour Blend
A good gluten-free flour blend is key to achieving the right texture. Look for a blend that includes a mix of starches (like tapioca or potato) and protein-rich flours (like almond or sorghum). If you’re making your own blend, aim for a balance to ensure the pudding stays moist but not too dense.
2. Soak the Dates Thoroughly
Dates are the heart of sticky toffee pudding, providing natural sweetness and moisture. Soak them in boiling water (or even a splash of coffee or rum for added depth) for at least 15 minutes before blending. This ensures they soften fully and blend seamlessly into the batter. Dates our optional in this sticky toffee pudding and I didn’t actually use them when baking this, but if you want to go down the traditional route you can certainly add them in!
3. Add Xanthan Gum (if Needed)
If your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t include xanthan gum or guar gum, add about 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour. This helps mimic the elasticity of gluten and prevents the pudding from crumbling.
4. Don’t Overmix the Batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense or gummy texture.
5. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Allow your eggs, butter, and milk to come to room temperature before starting. This ensures a smoother batter and a more evenly baked pudding.
6. Choose the Right Pan
Sticky toffee pudding is typically baked in a shallow dish to ensure even cooking. Make sure your pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
7. Test for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the pudding. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the pudding.
8. Master the Toffee Sauce
The toffee sauce is the star of this dessert, so don’t rush it. Use low to medium heat and stir continuously to prevent burning. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of bourbon or rum.
9. Serve Warm
Sticky toffee pudding is best served warm. If making it ahead of time, reheat the pudding in the oven (covered with foil to keep it moist) and gently warm the sauce before serving.
10. Pair It Perfectly
Serve the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of double cream. The cool creaminess perfectly balances the warm, sticky sweetness.
11. Add Festive Twists
For a holiday flair, consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the batter. You can also top the pudding with candied pecans, toasted almonds, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for extra texture and flavor.
With these tips, your gluten-free sticky toffee pudding will be an irresistible treat that everyone will rave about, regardless of their dietary preferences!
Ingredients:
The pudding
2 large eggs
170 g light brown sugar
100 g butter softened
220 g gluten-free self raising flour
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1/2 tsp gluten-free baking powder
3 tbsp black treacle
270 ml milk
Sticky Toffee Sauce
125 g light brown sugar
1 tbsp black treacle
300 ml double cream
100g butter
Preheat your oven to 160C Fan / 180C.
Place all your ingredients for the pudding (except the milk) into a large bowl and whisk together until well combined.
Pour the milk into the bowl in three stages, whisking in between each addition.
Pour your mixture into a greased or lined baking dish. Pop into the oven for about 40 minutes. It should have risen up. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly in the dish - this is where you will serve it from.
Whilst the pudding is in the oven, you can make your sauce. Pop all your ingredients into a small saucepan, allowing the butter to melt and the sugar to dissolve. Keep stirring. Bring to the boil and stir for a few minutes more before removing from the heat. The sticky toffee sauce will thicken a lot as it cools.
Cut your sponge into squares as big as you like. If they've completely cooled, I'd recommend briefly heating it in the microwave again to get it nice and warm.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard if using.
Pour a little of the hot, sticky toffee sauce over each portion of sticky toffee pudding.
Enjoy!
As the Christmas season unfolds, there’s no better time to embrace the joy of baking and sharing special moments around the table. This gluten-free sticky toffee pudding proves that indulgence and inclusivity can go hand in hand, creating a dessert that everyone can enjoy. Its rich, comforting flavors and festive charm make it the perfect finale for your holiday meal.
Whether you’re introducing this dessert to your family for the first time or bringing it back as a cherished tradition, it’s sure to fill your home with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aroma of the season. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of sticky toffee pudding make this Christmas unforgettable. After all, the best holiday memories are made sweeter with a little extra toffee sauce.
Wishing you a festive season filled with love, laughter, and plenty of pudding—Merry Christmas!
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