This Moist Date Cake is rich, tender, and packed with the natural sweetness of dates. Perfect for tea time or dessert, it’s a delightful treat with warm spices and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a luxurious finish.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (150 g) pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup (250 ml) hot water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 g) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Date Mixture:
- Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour the hot water over them.
- Stir in the baking soda and let it sit for 10 minutes to soften the dates.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour an 8-inch (20 cm) round or square baking pan.
- Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve plain, with powdered sugar, or drizzled with caramel sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Drizzle with homemade caramel or toffee sauce for an indulgent dessert.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Serve warm with a side of cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the dates are finely chopped for even distribution throughout the cake.
- For extra richness, substitute brown sugar for part of the granulated sugar.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for variety.
- If using dried dates, soak them in hot water for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to retain its shape.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants.
- A good source of energy and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings naturally.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Based on 10 Slices):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- A perfect balance of natural sweetness and warm spices.
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days.
- Versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings or sides.
Conclusion:
This Moist Date Cake is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether served plain or with a drizzle of caramel, it’s a treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth while adding a touch of nostalgia to your table. Try it today for a wholesome, comforting dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use fresh dates instead of dried?
Yes, fresh dates can be used. Chop them finely and reduce the soaking time. - What can I substitute for butter?
Use coconut oil, vegetable oil, or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. - Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I add nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition. - How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and store it in an airtight container. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the cake will have a denser texture. You can mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. - Can I skip the cinnamon and nutmeg?
Yes, but they add a warm, spiced flavor that complements the dates. - What other toppings work well?
Cream cheese frosting, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar are great options. - Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.