English Sticky Toffee Pudding

This British treat is served warm, just out of the oven.  It's a delightful change for those of you who prefer a delicious alternative sweet treat this Christmas.

INGREDIENTS: 
PUDDING ~ 
1     cup dates (Pitted & chopped)
1     cup boiling water
1     tsp baking soda
3/4 cup self-rising flour
1    tsp mixed spice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup butter
2    eggs
Pinch of salt


TOFFEE SAUCE ~ 
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1    tsp vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

• Preheat oven to 375 F.
• Butter and flour on 8" square loaf pan.
• In a small bowl, pour boiling water over dates, and add baking soda.
• In a mixer whisk butter and sugar until creamy.
• Add flour, mixed spice and pinch of salt to mixture.
• Stir until batter forms.
• Add date mixture and fold in until fully incorporated and pour into prepared baking tin.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes.
• Prepare the toffee sauce: Melt butter and sugar in a heavy saucepan over low heat until it begins to bubble and colour darkens.  (Apx. 5 minutes)
• Remove from the heat and gradually stir in the cream and vanilla extract.
• Return to heat (2-3 minutes), stir occasionally until mixture is thick and smooth.
• Pour toffee sauce over the cooled cake and serve immediately by itself or with a scoop of ice cream.

See yuh layta Mon!