Sticky Date Pudding

As the self-anointed Sticky Date Pudding ambassador in this part of the world, I have made a solemn vow to spread the Sticky Date Pudding love whenever and wherever I can. To that end, I’m serving it tonight at my Book Club. I can’t wait!

For the uninitiated, Sticky Date Pudding–at least the version I’ve grown to love–is a fabulously moist hunk of sweet, flavorful cake swimming in hot, homemade caramel sauce and topped with a generous dollop of double thick cream. No calories, of course. I, myself, was totally oblivious to the wonders of SDP until a recent trip through Tasmania with my aunt (who lives there). According to my research, the origin of SDP is debatable–although most sources agree it was somewhere in England–and the variations are limitless. Good. More recipes to test! But why haven’t we known about SDP here in the Midwest, and why did it take my aunt so long to clue me in. I’d been to Tasmania to visit her twice before, but did she ever suggest sampling the SDP (it’s offered at nearly every pub and restaurant in Australia)? No! Did she ever offer to make it for me, fabulous cook that she is? Again, no! Clearly, I have pissed her off at some point. But thankfully, she saw fit to introduce me to SDP on this trip. I’ll be forever grateful.

I have now made it for at least three groups of family and friends since my return a few weeks ago. Beyond the joy of eating it myself on these occasions, I’ve been treated to the audible sounds of pleasure as my loved ones experience SDP for the first time. Truly, they moan. I’m not a bad cook. I often make meals my family and friends enjoy, but rarely–if ever–do I make the folks around my table moan. It’s the coolest thing! I’ll let  you know how it goes tonight.

I’ll also be happy to share my recipe–that is if I can ever figure out how to post an attachment.