Sticky Date Pudding Tartlets with Cream Cheese Custard

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Sticky Date Pudding Tartlets with Cream Cheese Custard

Introduction

Sticky Date Pudding, also known as Sticky Toffee Pudding in the UK, is a classic British dessert beloved for its deep caramel flavor, moist texture, and nostalgic warmth. This version transforms the traditional pudding into tartlets, each filled with a luxurious cream cheese custard, giving an elegant twist to a rustic favorite. Perfect for tea parties, family gatherings, or holiday dinners, these tartlets are a true celebration of flavor and form.

History

Originating in the 20th century in the Lake District of England, sticky toffee pudding quickly became a staple in British dessert culture. The combination of moist date cake and rich toffee sauce was reportedly popularized by chefs Francis Coulson and Robert Lee. Over the years, the dish has seen countless variations, but it remains a symbol of comforting indulgence.

Benefits

  • Dates are rich in fiber, iron, potassium, and antioxidants.
  • Cream cheese offers calcium and healthy fats.
  • Eggs and milk provide protein and essential nutrients.
  • These tartlets can be made ahead and frozen, making them convenient for busy hosts.

Ingredients

For the Date Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups pitted dates, chopped
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 tsp baking soda

For the Tartlet Base:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Custard:

  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Topping:

  • Caramel sauce or toffee drizzle
  • Whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts

Method & Formation

Step 1: Prepare the Date Mixture

  1. Place chopped dates in a bowl.
  2. Pour boiling water over them and stir in baking soda.
  3. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until dates are soft. Mash lightly.

Step 2: Make the Tartlet Base

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Mix into the dry ingredients.
  4. Fold in the mashed date mixture until combined.

Step 3: Form the Tartlets

  1. Grease or line a muffin tin or mini tart pans.
  2. Press 2–3 tablespoons of the sticky date dough into each cavity, forming a cup shape.
  3. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until set and golden. Cool in tin.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Custard

  1. In a blender or with a hand mixer, blend cream cheese, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  2. Pour into a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Cool slightly before filling tartlets.

Step 5: Assemble

  1. Spoon or pipe cooled custard into each tartlet.
  2. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle nuts if desired.

Nutrition (per tartlet, approx.)

  • Calories: 260
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 5% DV

Conclusion

These Sticky Date Pudding Tartlets are the ultimate fusion of rustic comfort and elegant presentation. Rich in tradition and flavor, yet modern in their execution, they’re a surefire way to impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.

Lovers of This Recipe Include:

  • Bakers who love updating classics.
  • Entertainers looking for impressive desserts.
  • Date lovers and fans of naturally sweet treats.
  • Holiday hosts in need of a make-ahead masterpiece.

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