- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water, then stir in the baking soda and set aside to soften.
- Cream the butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
- Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt gradually. Fold in the date mixture until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make the toffee sauce by combining butter, brown sugar, and cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in vanilla.
- Pour half the warm toffee sauce over the baked pudding, poke holes in the surface, and let it soak for 10 minutes. Serve warm with the remaining sauce and optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.