International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day is observed on January 23 every year. sticky toffee pudding is considered a British classic by various culinary experts. It is also enjoyed in Australia and New Zealand as a sticky date pudding. Though it’s called pudding, some say this dessert is a mix of a pudding and a cake. But it doesn’t matter. Today is about celebrating and enjoying a moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, topped with toffee sauce often served with custard, cream, or ice cream. It sounds delightful and yummy.
History of International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day
The info about the origin of sticky toffee pudding is still a mystery and a continuing dispute within the culinary industry. There are three main claims for the invention of sticky toffee pudding. One of these comes from Yorkshire where it is believed that it was invented by the landlady of the Gait Inn in Millington in 1907.
According to Cumbria, the icky sticky toffee sponge originated at the Sharrow Bay Country House by Francis Coulson and Robert Lee and appeared on the menu in 1960. Whereas, Scottish argues that the sticky toffee pudding was first served in 1967 at the Udny Arms Hotel in Newburgh, Aberdeenshire.
Similarly, Howard and Jean Johns of Cartmel Village shop in Cumbria created their version of sticky toffee pudding for takeaway in 1989. They first came to Cartmel in 1971. Since 1984, They have been making their version of sticky toffee pudding and their creation has become popular.
In the beginning, they made only 25 puddings in a week. Today they make more than a million per year and are sold all over the world. They claim that their pudding consists of 100% natural ingredients with no preservatives. That might be one of the keys to their success.
There are several recipes for sticky toffee pudding. It contains two essential components they are: number one, moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates which is usually light and fluffy. Number two is the rich toffee sauce made from cream and sugar.
Sticky toffee pudding is commonly served with vanilla custard or vanilla ice cream to complement its flavour. International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day is a great time to experiment with it by making dessert from scratch.
Also read, National Coffee Break Day – January 20, 2025
Timeline of International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day
| 1907 (The Gait Inn) | The landlady of the Gait Inn in Millington makes sticky toffee pudding. |
| 1960 (The Sharrow Bay Country House) | A sticky toffee sponge developed by Francis Coulson and Robert Lee appears on the menu of the hotel. |
| 1967 (The Udny Arms Hotel) | A sticky toffee pudding is served in the Udny Arms Hotel. |
| 1989 (Cartmel Village Shop) | Howard and Jean Johns of Cartmel Village Shop in Cumbria develop takeaway sticky toffee pudding. |
Six Interesting Facts About Dates
- Dates are the OLDEST cultivated fruit on Earth: Dates are considered the world’s most ancient cultivated tree. It is estimated to have originated in 3000 BC. Although its origins are located in Iraq, yet this fruit was used throughout North Africa and the Middle East as a source of nourishment and nutrition.
- There are over 2,000 kinds of dates: The Medjool date is the most popular date which comes to mind when people think of dates. Yet there are several types of dates which have a wide range of looks and flavours. Medjool date is brown and wrinkly whereas on the other end of the spectrum, bahri dates are yellow and relatively smooth.
- The date palm tree is a national symbol: The date palm tree is taken as the national symbol of Saudi Arabia. It is also known as the “tree of life” in the Middle East.
- They provide the necessary minerals: Dates offer all the necessary minerals and vitamins the body needs.
- Dates can reduce anxiety levels: Many people take caffeine when seeking an energy boost. But it can also cause anxiety, stress, and headaches, especially when too much is consumed. When you are seeking extra energy, instead of grabbing a cup of coffee, try dates instead. Their natural sugars provide a healthy source of energy, instead of anxiety-inducing caffeine.
- Dates have a low glycemic index: Dates are high in sugar level but how can they have a low glycemic index? The answer is it is because of their natural sugars which are not processed. Unlike artificial sugars that are known to raise a person’s blood sugar level, the natural sugar in dates results in a slow and steady rise in blood sugar levels. This makes them beneficial for individuals living with or at risk for diabetes. It is also beneficial for those looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
Conclusion
International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day is observed annually on January 23. The day highlights the rich culinary heritage of this beloved British dessert. It is recognized for its moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates and drenched in a luscious toffee sauce. Similarly, it has also become a staple not only in the UK but also in other regions like Australia and New Zealand, where it is referred to as sticky date pudding.
There is no detailed info about its origins, but there is multiple claims to its invention, ranging from Yorkshire to Cumbria and Scotland. Notably, the version created and popularized by Howard and Jean Johns in Cartmel has received international acclaim. It demonstrates the pudding’s evolution from a local delicacy to a global favourite.
As we celebrate this day, it is a perfect time to indulge in the delightful flavours of sticky toffee pudding. You can enjoy it in its traditional form or through various adaptations. The day invites culinary experimentation and allows enthusiasts to create their versions of this classic dessert. That keeps the spirit of sticky toffee pudding alive and thriving in kitchens around the world.
Frequently Ask Question
How long have dates been around?
Dates have been around for thousands of years and are very popular in the Middle East.
What is the date palm tree called in the Middle East?
In the Middle East, the date palm tree is known as the “tree of life”.
What is the oldest British dessert?
One of the oldest recorded British desserts is Bread and butter pudding which dates back to the early 1700s.
Can you freeze sticky toffee pudding?
Ofcourse, you can freeze sticky toffee pudding for around three months.
When is International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day celebrated?
International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day is celebrated on January 23 every year.
You may also like to read, National Cheese Lover’s Day – January 20, 2025
