
Indulge in a rich, moist, and decadent vegan sticky toffee pudding that rivals the classic version. This plant-based dessert features a luscious date-infused sponge topped with a velvety, salted caramel-style sauce.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas 4). Lightly grease the base and sides of a small baking dish (approximately 20 x 15cm) with a little plant butter.
In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseeds with 3 tbsp of warm water. Set aside for at least 5 minutes to thicken into a 'flax egg'.
In a medium saucepan, mix together the chopped dates, oat drink, vanilla extract, and 100g of plant butter. Warm over medium heat until the butter has completely melted.
While the date mixture warms, whisk together the light brown soft sugar, self-raising flour, and mixed spice in a large mixing bowl. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
Once the butter in the saucepan has melted, remove from heat and stir in the bicarbonate of soda. The mixture will become bubbly and foamy.
Pour the bubbly date mixture and the soaked flaxseeds into the flour well. Stir well until the batter is smooth and no pockets of flour remain.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. Combine the remaining 100g of plant butter and the dark brown soft sugar in a clean saucepan over low heat. Once melted, increase the heat to bring it to a simmer.
Stir in the coconut cream and let the sauce bubble for 5-10 minutes until it becomes thick and glossy. Stir in a pinch of salt and remove from heat.
Pour the warm sauce generously over the baked sponge. Slice into six portions and serve immediately.
For the best results, use Medjool dates as they are naturally softer and sweeter. If you prefer a darker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of treacle. This pudding pairs perfectly with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream.
