Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm, comforting hug after a meal, look no further than this Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe. It’s a luscious, sticky pudding studded with sweet dates and warmly spiced, paired perfectly with a silky ginger custard that adds just the right zing. Every bite melts in your mouth, and the mingling of caramel, warming spices, and fresh ginger makes it a showstopper for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your all-time favorites too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe a delicious success. Each item on the list plays a crucial role, from the sweetness of the dates and caramel to the spice accents in the pudding and the vibrant bite of fresh ginger in the custard.

• Dried whole pitted dates (235g / 1 1/2 cups): These bring natural sweetness and a chewy texture that’s essential to the pudding’s sticky richness.
• Bicarbonate of soda (1 tsp): Helps to soften the dates into a luscious paste and lightens the pudding crumb.
• Brown sugar (200g / 1 cup, firmly packed): Offers deep, caramel-like sweetness that compliments the dates perfectly.
• Butter (180g, at room temperature, plus extra melted): Adds richness and moistness to the pudding, while the extra butter is for greasing the pan to keep things from sticking.
• Eggs (3, at room temperature): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a tender crumb.
• Self-raising flour (225g / 1 1/2 cups, plus extra to dust): Gives structure and a delicate rise to this comforting pudding.
• Mixed spice (1/2 tsp): Provides warm, gentle notes that enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
• Ground cloves (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle spicy kick that deepens the aroma.
• Caster sugar (155g / 3/4 cup): Needed for the sticky caramel sauce and the ginger custard’s sweetness.
• Thickened cream (80ml / 1/3 cup, plus 500ml / 2 cups more): Makes the caramel sauce silky and the custard luxuriously creamy.
• Walnut kernels (100g): Bring a wonderfully crunchy contrast when coated in caramel sauce.
• Egg yolks (8, at room temperature): Essential for creating the rich and velvety ginger custard.
• Milk (500ml / 2 cups): Balances the custard making it smooth and light.
• Fresh ginger (2-3 tbsp finely grated): Gives the custard its distinctive, warming ginger flavor that pairs beautifully with the sticky pudding.

How to Make Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Dates

Start by placing the dried dates in a small saucepan with 375ml of water and bringing it to a gentle boil. Then, remove from heat and stir in the bicarbonate of soda. This causes the dates to soften profoundly and break down into a luscious, sticky base for the pudding. Let it cool for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Tin

While the dates cool, preheat your oven to 180ºC (160ºC for fan-forced ovens). Brush a bundt pan with melted butter and dust it lightly with flour. This ensures your pudding comes out perfectly without sticking, keeping every bit intact and visually stunning once baked.

Step 3: Combine the Batter

Using electric beaters, cream together brown sugar and softened butter until the mixture is pale and fluffy—this step is critical to help trap air, giving the pudding a light texture despite its richness. Beat in the eggs one at a time, gently folding in the self-raising flour with mixed spice and cloves. Finally, stir through the cooled date mixture carefully, just until combined. Pour this gorgeous batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.

Step 4: Baking the Pudding

Bake for 40 minutes until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. This pudding sets to sticky perfection with a moist interior studded with sweet, tender dates. While it bakes, the aroma of spices and caramelizing sugars will start filling your kitchen, building anticipation for the delicious treat to come.

Step 5: Make the Sticky Caramel Sauce

In a heavy-based saucepan, dissolve caster sugar and water over medium-high heat. After the sugar dissolves, simmer gently without stirring, brushing down the pan sides to prevent crystals, until the sugar turns golden—the real magic of caramel! Remove from heat carefully, then stir in butter and cream for a silky, decadent sauce. Bring back to a boil for a minute to thicken slightly, then cover to keep warm.

Step 6: Prepare the Ginger Custard

Whisk together egg yolks and caster sugar until smooth in a heatproof bowl. Heat milk, cream, and fresh ginger in a saucepan just to simmer, then slowly whisk this into the egg yolk mixture, tempering the eggs to prevent curdling. Pour back into the pan and cook gently over low heat, stirring until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Strain to remove ginger bits, leaving you with a beautifully fragrant and creamy custard ready to pour.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serving

Toss walnut kernels in a couple of tablespoons of the warm caramel sauce to coat them fabulously. Turn the pudding out onto a serving platter and poke several holes all over with a skewer—this allows sticky caramel to seep into the pudding for extra indulgence. Scatter the caramel-coated walnuts on top and drizzle generously with both the ginger custard and remaining caramel sauce. Serve immediately for the best experience.

How to Serve Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with the pudding’s softness. Freshly grated ginger or a dusting of cinnamon can enhance the spice notes. A few plump dates or a sprig of fresh mint can brighten the plate visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs spectacularly with simple, fresh fruit such as sliced pears or apples to balance the richness. A dollop of lightly whipped cream is also a classic choice, offering a fresh creaminess alongside the sticky texture. For a truly decadent dessert spread, serve alongside a cup of strong black tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pudding warm in individual ramekins with the caramel sauce drizzled over just before serving. Alternatively, cut into neat wedges topped with a quenelle of custard for an elegant dessert plate. For a festive twist, sprinkle with crushed ginger biscuits or crystallized ginger pieces to add texture and sparkle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep the pudding moist and prevent the custard from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to prepare it in advance, you can freeze the pudding (without the custard) wrapped well in foil and plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best texture, make the ginger custard fresh before serving, as freezing can affect its silky consistency.

Reheating

Warm the pudding gently in a low oven or microwave until heated through. Reheat the caramel sauce separately on the stove, stirring gently, and warm the custard in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to avoid curdling. Pour warm sauces over the pudding just before serving for that perfect, comforting dessert experience.

FAQs

Can I use another type of dried fruit instead of dates?

Absolutely! While dates provide a distinctive stickiness and sweetness, dried figs, apricots, or raisins can be substituted for variation. Keep in mind these fruits have different moisture levels and sweetness, so the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Is the ginger custard very spicy?

The fresh ginger adds a lovely warming bite that complements the sweetness rather than overwhelming it. If you prefer a milder custard, reduce the ginger to 1 tablespoon or adjust according to your taste.

Can this pudding be made gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free self-raising flour blend in place of regular flour. The texture might be a little different but still delicious. Just ensure your baking powder and all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

What type of cream is best for the caramel sauce and custard?

Thickened cream or heavy cream works best for both, giving the sauces a rich and smooth texture. Avoid lighter creams as they might not thicken properly or could curdle when heated.

Can I prepare the caramel sauce and custard ahead of time?

Yes, the caramel sauce keeps well in the fridge and can be gently reheated. The ginger custard is best made fresh but can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain its silky texture.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Caramel Pudding with Ginger Custard Recipe is the kind of treat that feels special yet feels like home. It’s rich, comforting, and irresistibly delicious—perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring on your own with a good cup of tea. Give it a try soon and watch it become your go-to dessert for warmth and happiness in every bite.

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