Sticky date pudding is a classic warm dessert that is popular in Australia and the UK. It has a rich, dense texture and sweet flavor from dates that make it a delicious treat. But what if you make a whole pudding and don’t eat it all right away? Can you freeze the leftovers for later?
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely freeze sticky date pudding. In fact, freezing is a great way to save sticky date pudding so you can enjoy it again another time. When frozen properly, sticky date pudding holds up very well for at least 3-6 months in the freezer.
Here is a complete guide to freezing sticky date pudding, with tips on how to freeze it, thaw it, and serve it just like fresh.
How to Freeze Sticky Date Pudding
Freezing sticky date pudding is simple to do. Here are step-by-step instructions:
Prepare the Pudding
- Make the sticky date pudding according to your favorite recipe. Allow it to completely cool.
- Portion the pudding into serving sizes before freezing. Good sizes are individual ramekins or small storage containers that hold 1-2 servings each.
Freeze the Pudding
- Place wax paper between each portion if they are touching. This prevents them from freezing together.
- Put the containers of pudding directly in the freezer. Do not stack them, as this can cause them to freeze unevenly.
- Freeze for at least 12 hours or overnight so the pudding freezes solid.
Store the Frozen Pudding
- Once fully frozen, remove the pudding from the containers if possible. Wrap each portion well in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped sticky date pudding pieces in a freezer bag or airtight container. Squeeze out excess air.
- Label the package with the contents and freeze-by date. Frozen pudding will last 3-6 months in the freezer.
- Return the packaged pudding to the freezer immediately after wrapping.
Thawing Frozen Sticky Date Pudding
When ready to eat, thawing and reheating frozen sticky date pudding is important for the best texture and flavor. Here are some tips:
- For a single portion, unwrap the frozen pudding and place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw gradually.
- For quicker thawing, unwrap the pudding and place the frozen block in a bowl of cool water for 30-60 minutes.
- You can also thaw pudding sealed in a microwave safe dish at 50% power, checking often.
- Do not let the pudding thaw at room temperature or thaw too quickly. This can cause moisture loss.
- The center should still be chilled when serving for the best texture.
Reheating Frozen Sticky Date Pudding
Once thawed, reheating sticky date pudding ensures it returns to the perfect warm, moist texture.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. For individual portions, place the ramekins of thawed pudding in a baking dish with about an inch of hot water. Bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- For a whole pudding, place the thawed dish covered in foil in the oven at 350°F. Bake 45-60 minutes until hot.
- Microwave single portions, covered, at 50% power in 30 second intervals just until warmed through.
- Top the warm pudding with sauce or whipped cream just before serving if desired.
Tips for the Best Frozen Sticky Date Pudding
Follow these tips for delicious sticky date pudding after freezing:
- Use high quality, soft and moist dates in the original pudding recipe.
- Underbake the pudding slightly before freezing for a softer result after reheating.
- Allow the baked pudding to cool completely before freezing for best texture.
- Double wrap frozen portions using plastic wrap and freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Thaw the pudding slowly in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Avoid freezing more than once. Refreeze only unused portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have additional questions about successfully freezing and serving sticky date pudding.
Here are answers to some common sticky date pudding freezing FAQs:
How long does sticky date pudding last in the freezer?
Properly frozen sticky date pudding will keep well for 3-6 months in the freezer before quality declines. Wrap portions tightly and minimize exposure to air during freezing and thawing to get the longest freezer life.
Can you freeze sticky date pudding with sauce or cream?
It’s best to freeze sticky date pudding plain, without any sauce or whipped cream topping. The sauce or cream can separate or get icy in the freezer. Thaw the plain pudding, then add your favorite warmed sauce or freshly whipped cream just before serving.
Does sticky date pudding freeze well?
Yes, sticky date pudding freezes beautifully! The dense, moist texture holds up well to freezing if you freeze it properly in portions, seal it from air exposure, and thaw it gradually in the refrigerator. Reheat it fully before serving.
Can you re-freeze thawed sticky date pudding?
It is best not to refreeze previously frozen and thawed sticky date pudding. The texture will become grainier and drier with each round of freezing. Only refreeze unused portions that have not been completely thawed.
What is the best way to thaw frozen sticky date pudding?
For the best texture, thaw frozen sticky date pudding gradually overnight in the refrigerator. For quicker thawing, place the frozen block in a bowl of cool water for 30-60 minutes. Thaw just until a chilled center remains before reheating.
How do you reheat frozen sticky date pudding?
To reheat individual portions, bake thawed ramekins in a water bath at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until warmed through. For a whole pudding, bake the thawed dish at 350°F covered in foil for 45-60 minutes. Microwave single portions at 50% power just until heated through.
Can you freeze sticky date pudding batter before baking?
Freezing unbaked sticky date pudding batter is not recommended. The texture of the pudding will likely be compromised after thawing and baking frozen batter. Only freeze fully baked and cooled puddings.
Enjoy Delicious Sticky Date Pudding Anytime
Freezing is a great way to save leftovers and always have this sweet, comforting dessert on hand. With proper freezing, thawing and reheating, you can enjoy fantastic sticky date pudding just like it was freshly made.
Follow the instructions in this guide for freeze, thaw and serving success. Now you never have to worry about sticky date pudding going to waste. Just freeze the extras to savor again another day.
Hi, I’m Julie, the passionate foodie and founder of Juliesfamilykitchen.com. I created this blog out of a drive to prove someone wrong, and then I realized how much I truly enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. In my free time, when I’m not running around after my kids or spending quality time with my partner, you can usually find me in the kitchen experimenting with new dishes.