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1
CAKE: roughly chop the dates and add to a saucepan with the water and baking soda. Place over low heat and bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for a few minutes until the dates are soft. (Be careful, as the mixture will boil over.)
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2
Puree the dates while they're still warm in a food processor. Set aside the date puree and allow to cool completely.
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3
Cream together butter, sugar, salt, and baking powder until thoroughly combined.
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4
Beat eggs into butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, until light and fluffy.
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5
Beat in cooled date puree.
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6
Fold in golden syrup, vanilla extract, and flour just until combined.
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7
Pour batter into greased and floured pan. Bake at 350F for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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8
TOFFEE SAUCE (which should be made while the cake is baking): Add sugar, butter, salt, and golden syrup to a saucepan. Cook over a low heat until the sauce goes bubbly and the sugar has completely dissolved.
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9
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a boil and then remove from the heat.
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10
ASSEMBLY: While the cake is still warm, use a skewer to poke holes all over. Pour toffee sauce all over the top of the cake.
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11
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and extra toffee sauce.