Name: Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1/4 cup salted butter, melted; 1 cup pitted, chopped dates; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 3/4 cup boiling water; 2 cups sweet potato puree (see homemade version in notes); 1 cup dark brown sugar; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dark brown sugar; 6 tbsp sweet potato puree; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup salted butter; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug after a chilly day, this Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding is absolutely the one to try. Combining the natural earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with that classic sticky toffee richness, it’s a cozy treat that’s ideal for fall and winter festivities. Soft, moist, and laden with luscious toffee sauce, it transforms sweet potato into a soulful, decadent pudding that’s destined to become your new favorite comfort dessert.

Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its surprisingly simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a key role in building perfect texture, flavor, and that irresistible moistness. From the sweet potato puree that brings subtle earthiness to the sticky toffee sauce’s rich creaminess, everything harmonizes beautifully.

Salted butter: Adds a wonderful richness and helps achieve tender crumb in the pudding cake.
Pitted, chopped dates: Natural sweeteners that offer chewiness and deepen the toffee flavor.
Baking soda and baking powder: Provide the lift and lightness needed for a soft pudding cake.
Boiling water: Softens the dates perfectly to blend into a smooth paste.
Sweet potato puree: Gives body, moisture, and earthiness that defines this pudding’s unique twist.
Brown sugar (preferably dark): Brings warm caramel notes crucial for sticky toffee goodness.
Cinnamon: Adds a subtle cozy spice, enhancing the autumnal vibe.
Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
All-purpose flour: The structure builder that holds everything together.
Heavy cream: Makes the toffee sauce decadently smooth and rich.
Maple syrup: Introduces a hint of natural sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out and deepens the flavor profile of the toffee sauce.

How to Make Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with buttery goodness, then line it with parchment paper to ensure the pudding cake releases easily after baking. These small steps set the stage for a perfectly baked pudding with nice edges and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Soften and Blend the Dates

In a medium bowl or measuring cup, combine the chopped dates, melted salted butter, baking soda, and baking powder. Pour boiling water over them to soften the dates, letting the mixture rest for about 10 minutes. This soaking is crucial because it transforms those dates into a luscious paste once blended, which adds moisture and sticky sweetness to the pudding’s foundation.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Once the dates have softened, pop the mixture into your blender and blitz until you have a smooth paste. Then, transfer to a large bowl and whisk in the sweet potato puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Finally, fold in the flour, mixing just until combined. This creates a thick, rich batter that bakes into an irresistibly moist pudding cake.

Step 4: Bake the Pudding Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick poked in the center comes out with moist crumbs—this means it’s perfectly cooked but still tender. Let the pudding cool slightly on a wire rack as you move on to the sauce preparation.

Step 5: Make the Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, sweet potato puree, heavy cream, butter, and maple syrup. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. After removing from heat, whisk in vanilla extract for a fragrant finish that perfectly complements the pudding’s warmth.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Using a fork or skewer, poke holes across the top of the warm pudding cake. This allows the sticky toffee sauce to seep deliciously into every bite. Pour about two-thirds of the sauce over the pudding, reserving some for drizzling at the table. Slice the pudding into portions and serve while warm, ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a gorgeous contrast of temperatures and textures.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding

Garnishes

While the classic presentation with vanilla ice cream is unbeatable, feel free to get creative with garnishes. Toasted pecans or walnuts add a fantastic crunch and nutty flavor that pairs brilliantly with the pudding’s richness. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the toffee sauce can also amplify the buttery sweetness for a delightful salty-sweet experience.

Side Dishes

Serve this pudding alongside whipped cream infused with a touch of cinnamon or a dollop of crème fraîche for tangy balance. For those who love seasonal vibes, a side of stewed apples or spiced poached pears creates a fresh contrast and elevates the overall dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow factor at your next gathering, try serving individual portions in ramekins layered with extra toffee sauce between spoonfuls. Alternatively, transform the leftover pudding into a spectacular trifle by layering it with custard and whipped cream in a glass bowl. This Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding also makes an excellent filling for tart shells, perfect for impressing guests with your dessert flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding stays moist and tender, and the sticky toffee sauce remains luscious—ready for a quick reheating treat.

Freezing

This dessert freezes beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months frozen, making it perfect for prepping ahead of holidays or special occasions.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pudding gently in the microwave or oven until heated through—cover to retain moisture. Add fresh warm sticky toffee sauce before serving to revive the gooey, indulgent character that makes this dessert so special.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potato puree works perfectly in this recipe and will save you prep time. Just make sure to choose pure sweet potato, not pie filling, for the best results.

Is it possible to make this pudding gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best texture.

How long does this pudding keep once made?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, the pudding remains delicious for up to three days. Beyond that, the texture may begin to change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or frozen.

Can I prepare the toffee sauce in advance?

You sure can! The sticky toffee sauce can be made up to a week ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. Warm it up gently before serving for that perfect pourable consistency.

What’s the best way to serve Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding for a crowd?

Cut the pudding into smaller squares and arrange on a serving platter with the sauce warmed in a gravy boat for self-serving. Provide scoops of ice cream and toppings nearby so everyone can customize their own indulgence.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about transforming humble sweet potatoes into a dessert as rich and comforting as this Sweet Potato Sticky Toffee Pudding. It captures warmth, sweetness, and a little bit of nostalgia all in one bite, perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself or impress loved ones. Give this recipe a go—you might just discover your new favorite way to celebrate seasonal flavors with an extra dose of deliciousness.