Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.

Step 2

Place the pitted dates in a food processor and pulse until they resemble large crumbs and no large chunks remain. Place the processed dates in a small bowl, sprinkle with baking soda and set aside. Add the boiling water to the dates and stir.

Step 3

In a large bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar and eggs; beat until just combined. Fold in the flour, baking powder, salt and date mixture. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake 40 to 50 minutes or until the center springs back when pressed slightly. Remove and cool on wire rack at least 10 minutes before removing from pan and serving.

Step 4

Combine all of the ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat stirring often until slightly thickened.  Allow to cool approximately 10 minutes before drizzling over the toffee pudding and serving.