This rich and moist Date Cake is made with juicy dates, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, creating a deliciously sweet treat. Perfect for any occasion, the cake is adorned with walnuts or almonds, adding an extra crunch and flavor. Whether served as a snack or dessert, this date cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with its naturally sweet date flavor and soft, tender crumb.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients:
- 250g dates (soft, juicy dates, not dry ones)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/3 cup (80g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) oil
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup (90g) flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Walnuts or almonds for decoration
Directions:
- Prepare the Dates:
- Remove the pits from the 250g of dates and chop them into quarters.
- Place the chopped dates in a frying pan with 1/4 cup warm milk. Heat over medium flame for 20-25 minutes until the milk warms up and the dates soften.
- Blend the Mixture:
- In a blender, add 1/2 cup oil and 1/3 cup sugar. Blend until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the soaked dates and milk mixture to the blender and blend for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time to the blender, blending well after each addition to incorporate them thoroughly.
- Prepare the Batter:
- Pour the blended mixture into a large bowl.
- Sift 3/4 cup flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder together, then gently fold into the date mixture.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix gently.
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Grease a baking pan with oil and line it with butter paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and decorate with walnuts or almonds on top.
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Alternatively, if you don’t have an oven, use a heavy-bottomed pan on the stove. Preheat the pan, place a trivet, and set the baking pan on top. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes on low heat.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Enjoy as a snack with fresh fruit on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the dates are soft and juicy for the best texture.
- Blend the mixture thoroughly for a smooth, even batter.
- If using a pan on the stove, keep the flame low to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon in the batter.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Dates are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- This cake offers a good balance of healthy fats from the oil and protein from the eggs.
- A perfect natural sweetener, dates provide a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Dairy optional (can substitute plant-based milk for a vegan version)
- Gluten: Contains gluten (can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life (up to 1 week).
- Freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick to prepare, with a deliciously moist and naturally sweet flavor.
- Versatile: Serve as a dessert, snack, or a special treat for gatherings.
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- A healthier option compared to traditional cakes, with the richness of dates.
Conclusion:
This Date Cake is a simple, yet decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweetness of the dates combined with the lightness of the cake makes it a delightful dessert. Top it with walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just a cozy snack, this cake is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dry dates for this recipe?
- It’s best to use soft, juicy dates as they provide a better texture. Dry dates may require soaking longer to soften.
- Can I make this cake without eggs?
- Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg for a vegan version.
- How do I know when the cake is done baking?
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
- Can I add other nuts to the cake?
- Yes, feel free to add almonds, cashews, or pistachios for variation.
- Is this cake gluten-free?
- The recipe contains wheat flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
- Can I freeze the date cake?
- Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Can I use a sugar substitute?
- You can use alternatives like stevia or coconut sugar, but this may slightly alter the flavor.
- Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
- Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg will enhance the flavor.
- What can I use instead of milk?
- You can use any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- How can I make the cake richer?
- For a richer flavor, add some cream to the batter or drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.