Name: Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 20 g Unsalted butter (At room temperature, for greasing); 175 g Pitted dates (Very finely chopped); 100 ml Boiling water; 75 g Unsalted butter (Room temperature); 150 g Dark muscovado sugar; 2 Eggs; 175 g Self-raising flour; 1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda; 2 tsp Vanilla extract; 150 g Dark muscovado sugar; 400 ml Boiling water

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 46 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for classic British desserts, you are going to absolutely adore this Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe. This comforting treat combines moist, tender sponge with rich, luscious toffee sauce that melds together perfectly, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. What makes this recipe extra special is how simple ingredients transform into a spectacular dessert with that satisfying balance of sweetness and warmth—ideal for cozy evenings or impressing guests. Once you try this Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Six small white bowls are placed on a white marbled surface, arranged in two vertical columns of three. The top left bowl holds two brown eggs, smooth and oval, while the top right bowl is filled with a heap of white flour, slightly clumpy. Below the eggs, there is a bowl filled with dark brown sugar, coarse and crumbly in texture. Across from it, a pale yellow square of butter fills another bowl, smooth and solid. Below the brown sugar, a bowl contains small dark reddish-brown date pieces with a moist, sticky appearance. The bottom right bowl, the smallest of them all, holds a small pile of fine white powder, likely baking soda or baking powder. The lighting is bright and natural, emphasizing the textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for the Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe is straightforward but crucial. Each element plays a unique role—from the deep flavors of muscovado sugar to the fluffy texture created by self-raising flour, every bite is a masterpiece of taste and texture.

20 g Unsalted butter (room temperature for greasing): Ensures none of the pudding sticks to the slow cooker and adds subtle richness.
175 g Pitted dates (very finely chopped): These bring natural sweetness and a moist texture to the cake base.
100 ml Boiling water: Helps soften the dates for a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
75 g Unsalted butter (room temperature): Creates a tender crumb with a buttery taste.
150 g Dark muscovado sugar: Packed with molasses flavor, this sugar deepens the toffee notes beautifully.
2 Eggs: Provide structure while keeping the pudding light and fluffy.
175 g Self-raising flour: The perfect choice for a naturally rising, soft sponge.
1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda: Reacts with the dates’ acidity for great lift and airiness.
2 tsp Vanilla extract: Adds fragrant warmth and complexity to the batter.
150 g Dark muscovado sugar (for topping): Used to create the irresistible sticky toffee sauce on top.
400 ml Boiling water (for topping): Poured over the sugar to form that signature sticky, glossy toffee layer.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Dates

Begin by putting the very finely chopped dates into a small bowl and covering them with 100 ml of boiling water. Use a fork to gently push the dates beneath the surface so they soak up all that hot liquid. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to soften—it’s this step that gives the pudding its wonderful moistness and rich flavor depth.

Step 2: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

While the dates soak, grease your slow cooker pot generously with 20 g of room temperature unsalted butter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a hint of buttery flavor around the edges of the pudding, making every bite a dream.

Step 3: Mix the Pudding Batter

In a large bowl, combine 75 g butter and 150 g dark muscovado sugar, beating until smooth and arm-achingly creamy. Then add the 2 eggs and continue whisking to get everything well blended. Next, sift in the self-raising flour and bicarbonate of soda for that perfect rise, followed by the fragrant vanilla extract. Drain the soaked dates and fold them gently into your batter. This melding of ingredients creates the tender sponge that is the heart of the Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe.

Step 4: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Pour the batter into your well-greased slow cooker pot, smoothing the surface evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle 150 g of dark muscovado sugar over the top in an even layer. Then, carefully pour 400 ml of boiling water over the sugar, even though it might look odd at this point, trust that magic is happening beneath the surface.

Step 5: Cook and Wait Patiently

Place the lid firmly on your slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The pudding is ready when it is firm in the center but still wonderfully moist. Resist the urge to peek too often—slow and steady cooking is what gives this Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe its luscious texture and that perfect sticky topping.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

A round white speckled bowl holds a rich dark brown textured dessert with a slightly rough and sticky surface, looking warm and moist. On top of the dessert, there is a smooth and creamy dollop of pale cream-colored whipped topping that contrasts with the dark base. A shiny silver spoon is placed on the right side inside the bowl with the handle leaning out. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic way to serve this pudding is with a generous drizzle of cream or custard, which cuts through the richness and adds an extra layer of velvety indulgence. For a modern twist, sprinkling some toasted nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience with contrasting textures and temperatures.

Side Dishes

Although this pudding is delightful on its own, pairing it with seasonal fruits like poached pears or spiced apple compote can refresh the palate and bring a hint of tartness to balance the deep sweetness. A cup of strong, freshly brewed coffee or a robust black tea also makes an excellent companion, rounding out the dessert’s warm, comforting vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve the pudding in individual ramekins straight from the slow cooker to maintain warmth and intimacy. Another fun idea is to layer the sticky toffee pudding with whipped cream and crumbled shortbread for a deconstructed trifle that’s both elegant and playful. Whatever the presentation, the Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe always shines.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe should be cooled completely before being covered and stored in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen over time, making it a tempting treat to enjoy later.

Freezing

You can freeze the pudding either whole or in portions. Wrap it tightly with cling film or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the moist texture of this gorgeous dessert.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To revive its sauciness, drizzle a little warm toffee sauce or cream over the top before serving. This method will bring the Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe back to its freshly made glory with minimal fuss.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dates for this recipe?

Yes! While pitted Medjool dates are traditionally used due to their natural sweetness and soft texture, you can substitute with other types like Deglet Noor. Just ensure they are finely chopped and fully soaked to achieve the right moisture level.

Is it necessary to use dark muscovado sugar?

The dark muscovado sugar is key for that rich, deep toffee flavor and moistness. Using lighter brown sugar or granulated sugar will change the flavor profile, potentially making it less sticky and intense, but you can certainly experiment if needed.

Can I make this Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe without a slow cooker?

You can bake it in the oven using a similar pan, but the texture might differ slightly. Slow cooking allows the pudding to cook gently and develop that signature sticky sauce, so the slow cooker really is the best tool for this recipe.

How do I know when the pudding is cooked through?

The pudding should feel firm in the center but still yielding slightly when pressed lightly. If it’s too wobbly or undercooked, give it more time. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model.

Can I add any extras to the pudding batter?

Absolutely! Some people like to add chopped nuts or a splash of whisky for extra warmth and complexity. Just don’t overload the batter, as you want to maintain that classic, moist texture at the heart of this Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a cozy hug in food form. With incredibly simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up a pudding that feels like a special occasion any night of the week. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with loved ones, I promise this recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings. So go ahead, give it a try, and discover just how magical sticky toffee pudding can be when made with love and patience.

Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need