Top 5 Sticky Date Puddings

The ever humble but celebrated sticky date pudding. To me, its all about the rich caramel sauce and of course, the warm moist texture of the cake. Hence, I have cast a critical eye on many a sticky date pudd based on the above criteria to conjure up my list.

TOP 5 STICKY DATE PUDDINGS

1. Giorgio's
1235 High Street Armadale, 03 9822 4664

A local favourite amongst surrounding residents & regulars, this renowned Cafe never fails to delight with over 100 dishes to suit any palate. But more than ever, you have to delve into the divine Sticky Date Pudding. At under $12, indulge in a decent sized soft warm pudd drenched with stacks of rich caramel sauce dusted with icing sugar and served with a side of velvety ice cream. What differentiates it from the pack is the generous serve of smooth caramel sauce, which you can almost drink up like soup. Oh what a dream..I guarantee you'll be begging for more..

2. Berth
45 New Quay Prm, Docklands, (03) 9670 0199

We were genuinely surprised by this star find. We chanced upon this splendid Sticky Date Pudd right after our unpleasant experience at Mecca Bah, where we were literally rushed out by the manager (no doubt during peak hour, but still unacceptable) who brought us the bill before we could say "dessert please". In any case, thank God for that as we were blown away by the Sticky Date at the neighbouring "Berth" restaurant. We were not only welcomed by a warm, comforting mound of delectable toffee-soaked pudd but also equally hospitable service.

3. Brown's
Various locations across Melbourne

I first sunk into Brown's Sticky Date at my last birthday party. Thanks to my lovely friend Seng, I got to relish the quality cakes that make Brown's reputed for being "bakers of distinction". Choose from an individual slice, or 21 cm or 30 cm - for bigger parties (up to 25 pax), my suggestion is to get the largest cake for under $50, to avoid disappointment and your guests imploring for more. Heat a slice of cake in the microwave for 15 sec and watch the caramel melt over the cake. Serve warm with ice cream or creme fraiche.

4. Melbourne Bake House
210 Bay Street, Port Melbourne, (03) 9646 0898

You can choose from a variety of moreish cakes at the Bakehouse but my favourite is still the Sticky Date Pudding. Baked fresh daily, the cakes are moist and spongey, laced with generous amounts of dates on top served with a heavenly butterscotch sauce. For under $35, this cake makes for an ideal birthday cake or perfect afternoon tea delight. You can now get the smaller version (serves 3-4) for $13.50! Ideal as dessert after a home made meal! ;)

5. Errol's
69 - 71 Errol St, North Melbourne, 03 9326 6610

Family owned & run, Errol's whips up home made pastries & cakes, and their famous sticky date cakes are to die for. Treat yourself to an assortment of quality tea or 100% arabica coffee & heart-warming cake at their quaint joint or takeaway to enjoy at the comforts of home.