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Walnut and Date Cake

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Walnut and Date Cake is a moist, naturally sweetened dessert featuring tender dates and crunchy walnuts, lightly spiced with cinnamon. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for coffee breaks, gifting, or a comforting treat any time of day.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8–10 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped dates (preferably Medjool or Deglet Noor)
  • 3/4 cup hot water
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf or round cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, combine chopped dates, hot water, and baking soda. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Add the softened date mixture (including liquid) and mix until combined.
  6. Sift in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently until just incorporated.
  7. Fold in chopped walnuts, reserving a few for topping if desired.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with extra walnuts if using.
  9. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Add raisins or chopped dried apricots for extra sweetness.
  • Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
  • Top with glaze or cream cheese frosting for a more festive version.
  • Freeze slices individually for an easy snack later.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/walnut-and-date-cake-2/