Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake Recipe

Ina Garten’s Sticky Toffee Cake is a luxurious dessert featuring a moist date-based cake drizzled with a rich toffee sauce. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you crave a comforting, sweet dessert.

What is Ina Garten’s Sticky Toffee Cake?

Sticky Toffee Cake is a classic British dessert made with a moist sponge cake, often infused with dates and topped with a luscious toffee sauce. Ina Garten’s version adds a touch of elegance and balance, making it an irresistible dessert that’s easy to prepare and utterly satisfying.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Reuben Sandwich
• Ina Garten Blini
• Ina Garten Non-Alcoholic Pomegranate Cosmo
• Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

• Rich and indulgent: Combines a moist cake with a buttery toffee sauce.
• Perfect for entertaining: An impressive dessert for gatherings or celebrations.
• Comforting flavors: Warm, caramel-like toffee pairs beautifully with the sweet cake.
• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh dates.
• Customizable: Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or additional toppings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

For the Cake:

• 8 ounces pitted dates, chopped
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup boiling water
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Toffee Sauce:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

• Soften the dates: Place the chopped dates in a bowl, sprinkle with baking soda, and pour the boiling water over them. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan.
• Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
• Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
• Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Combine the ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the softened date mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

• Pour into the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
• Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool slightly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Toffee Sauce

• Melt the butter and sugar: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring frequently.
• Add the cream and vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, or until thickened.

Step 5: Serve

• Drizzle the sauce: Pour the warm toffee sauce over the cake. Reserve some sauce for serving.
• Add toppings: Serve slices of cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with additional toffee sauce.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

• Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds balance to the richness.
• Add ice cream: Vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm toffee sauce.
• Pair with coffee or tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea complements the caramel flavors.
• Garnish with nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture.
• Include a drizzle of chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadent touch.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

• Soften the dates properly: Allow the dates to sit in boiling water to soften fully for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a light and tender cake.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh dates and real vanilla extract enhance the flavor.
• Serve warm: The cake and toffee sauce taste best when served slightly warm.
• Reheat leftovers: Warm individual slices in the microwave and drizzle with extra sauce before serving.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of the cake.
• Add spices: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a spiced version.
• Use different fruits: Substitute dates with chopped figs or prunes for a variation in flavor.
• Add rum or brandy: Stir a splash of rum or brandy into the toffee sauce for a boozy twist.
• Make individual servings: Bake the batter in ramekins for single-serve cakes.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Sticky Toffee Cake

• Store at room temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for longer storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for later: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Sticky Toffee Cake ahead of time?

Yes, Sticky Toffee Cake can be made ahead. Bake the cake and prepare the toffee sauce, then store them separately. Reheat the cake and sauce before serving and drizzle the warm sauce over the cake.

What can I use instead of dates in Sticky Toffee Cake?

Figs or prunes can be used as a substitute for dates. They provide a similar texture and sweetness, but the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I store Sticky Toffee Cake leftovers?

Store leftover Sticky Toffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze Sticky Toffee Cake?

Sticky Toffee Cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Sticky Toffee Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love rich, indulgent flavors. With its moist texture, warm toffee sauce, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Serve it at your next dinner party or enjoy it as a cozy treat for yourself—you won’t be disappointed!

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Gingerbread Cake
• Quiche Lorraine
• Salted Caramel Brownies
• Ina Garten Grapenut Pudding
• Apple Cinnamon Muffins

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