Festive Cranberry and Orange Sticky Toffee Pudding

Introduction

While traditional sticky toffee pudding is a year-round comfort, this festive variation—infused with tart cranberries and bright orange zest—is the ultimate Christmas dessert. Originating from the classic British steamed pudding, this recipe replaces the standard water with orange juice and incorporates dried cranberries for a seasonal touch. It’s incredibly moist, deeply caramelized, and offers a beautiful balance to rich holiday meals, making it a guaranteed centerpiece for your festive table.

Ingredients

**For the Pudding:**
200 g (7 oz) pitted Medjool dates, chopped
50 g (1/2 cup) dried cranberries
175 ml (3/4 cup) boiling orange juice
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
85 g (3 oz) unsalted butter, softened
175 g (3/4 cup) dark brown sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
225 g (1 3/4 cups) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour mixed with 2 tsp baking powder)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 large orange
**For the Toffee Sauce:**
100 g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter
100 g (1/2 cup) dark brown sugar
150 ml (2/3 cup) double cream (heavy cream)
Pinch of sea salt

Step-by-step Preparation

**Prep and Soak:** Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (325°F) for fan/convection ovens. Grease and line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking dish or individual pudding molds. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dates, cranberries, and bicarbonate of soda. Pour over the boiling orange juice, stir well, and set aside for 10 minutes until the mixture has softened and thickened. *Tip: The baking soda reacts with the orange juice, helping the dates break down and ensuring a light texture.*
**Cream the Base:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually whisk in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract.
**Combine Mixtures:** Gently fold the flour and orange zest into the butter mixture until just combined. Then, pour the soaked date and cranberry mixture into the batter and stir until evenly incorporated. Do not overmix.
**Bake:** Pour the batter into the prepared dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. While the pudding bakes, prepare the sauce.
**Prepare the Sauce:** In a small saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and sea salt over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. *Tip: Do not boil the cream mixture for too long, as it will thicken significantly as it cools.*
**Serve:** Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke several holes across the top using a skewer. Pour half of the warm toffee sauce over the pudding immediately. Serve the remaining sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information

As a traditional holiday dessert, this sticky toffee pudding is rich in energy, providing approximately 450-550 calories per serving (depending on serving size and sauce amount). It is high in carbohydrates and natural sugars, offering a quick energy boost. The dates and cranberries contribute dietary fiber and antioxidants, while the eggs provide protein. Due to the butter and cream content, it is high in saturated fats, making it a wonderful indulgence best enjoyed in moderation during the festive season.

Storage

Leftover pudding should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Store the leftover toffee sauce separately. To reheat, slice individual portions and microwave on medium heat for 30–60 seconds, or wrap tightly in foil and warm in a 160°C (325°F) oven for 10 minutes. Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan or microwave until smooth and pourable.

Conclusion

This Cranberry and Orange Sticky Toffee Pudding is best served piping hot, drowning in the rich, caramelized sauce. Pair it with a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream, clotted cream, or a traditional brandy custard for the ultimate holiday experience. For a deeper spice profile, consider adding half a teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon to the pudding batter. This dessert is the true embodiment of Christmas cheer—warm, comforting, and utterly decadent.

Christmas Dessert Ideas