Sticky Date Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Pre-heat oven to 180C Grease and line base of a 22cm square cake pan, or a 20cm springform pan.
2. 2
   Place dates in a bowl with bicarb soda.
3. 3
   Pour boiling water over the top, and stand until slightly cooled.
4. 4
   Meanwhile beat butter and sugar until light and creamy.
5. 5
   Beat in eggs one by one, beating well after each addition and add vanilla.
6. 6
   Fold in flour, cinnamon, and orange rind alternately with date mixture until well combined.
7. 7
   Pour into pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until cooked when tested with a skewer.
8. 8
   For Caramel Sauce:.
9. 9
   Combine ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer until thickened slightly.
10. 10
    Spoon a little onto cake, then return to oven for 2 minutes.
11. 11
    Serve pudding with caramel sauce.