Dates walnut cake
Dates walnut cake is a treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich, earthy flavour of walnuts. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a cosy afternoon tea to a special family gathering. Its moist texture and balanced sweetness make it a favourite among dessert lovers.
Dates provide a natural sweetness that complements the slightly bitter, nutty taste of walnuts. Together, they create a harmonious balance that is hard to resist.
Simple Ingredients, Rich Flavour
One of the best things about dates walnut cake is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy tools to make it. The main ingredients include dates, walnuts, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. You might already have most of these in your pantry. The dates add moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts give the cake a delightful crunch. A touch of cinnamon can enhance the flavour even more.
A Perfect Cake for Every Occasion
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, dates walnut cake is a recipe that you can easily master. It’s a versatile cake that works well for many occasions. Serve it as a dessert at dinner parties, or enjoy it with a cup of tea on a lazy afternoon. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
A delicious slice of date and walnut cake, packed with natural sweetness and crunchy nuts, perfect with a cup of tea
Tips
To make the perfect dates walnut cake, follow a few simple tips. First, soak the dates in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the batter. This softens the dates, making them easier to mix and ensuring they blend smoothly into the cake. Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the batter to bring out their flavour and add a bit of crunch. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, tender crumb.
Love this Date & Walnut Cake? Explore more irresistible cake recipes and find your next favourite bake!
Once your dates walnut cake is baked, let it cool before slicing. This allows the flavours to settle and makes the cake easier to cut. Serve it plain, or add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of sweetness. The cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
Dates walnut cake
Ingredients
1 cup = 250ml
- 1 ½ cups dates 220 gms, pitted and chopped 17 dates
- 1 cup 250ml hot water
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ⅔ cup 150gms unsalted melted butter
- ½ cup 100 gms brown sugar (packed)
- 3 room-temperature eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups 200gms all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup 100 gms walnuts (toasted and chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, add the chopped dates, baking soda and salt. Stir them. Pour the boiling water over the chopped dates and let it sit for about 30 minutes until the dates are softened.
- Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, stirring once or twice to ensure even toasting.
- Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. They should become fragrant and slightly darker in colour.
- Alternatively, you can use a stovetop method. (see notes)
- Let the toasted walnuts cool completely before chopping and adding them to your cake batter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon powder and salt. Sieve and add the chopped walnuts. Mix until well combined.
- Beat the eggs, then add the vanilla extract and light brown sugar. Whip on high until the eggs are fluffy and light.
- Add the melted and cooled butter and mix.
- Stir in the soaked softened dates (with the water they were soaking in) and whip for another minute.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared 8-inch cake pan, spreading it evenly. Tap to release any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and enjoy! This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Notes
Frequently asked questions
The main ingredients include dates, walnuts, flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, butter or oil and cinnamon.
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts, depending on your preference.
Dates should be pitted and chopped. Soak the dates in warm water or boiling water for 30 minutes to soften them, making them easier to mix into the batter.
The cake can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or spices like nutmeg to enhance the flavour.
A standard loaf pan, an 8×8 inch square pan, or a round cake pan can be used, depending on the shape you prefer. Ensure the pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Dryness can result from overbaking or using too little liquid. Make sure to check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time and add enough moisture-rich ingredients like dates and eggs.
