This Gluten-Free Orange and Date Cake is a delightful combination of natural sweetness from dates and the fresh, zesty flavor of orange. Made with a homemade gluten-free flour blend and sweetened with brown sugar, this cake has a tender, moist crumb that’s rich in both flavor and texture. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds a satisfying bite, making this a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Ideal for anyone seeking a healthier dessert option, this cake is completely gluten-free, yet packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with citrusy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This: You’ll love this cake for its naturally sweet and tangy flavor, along with its rich, moist texture. The dates soak in orange juice, infusing the cake with a burst of citrus while adding a caramel-like sweetness. The recipe is simple and uses ingredients you likely already have at home, especially if you follow a gluten-free diet. The cake is also refined sugar-free, using brown sugar for a milder, less processed sweetness. Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cakes, this recipe proves that you don’t need gluten or refined sugars to make a delicious, satisfying dessert.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is perfect for any occasion where you want to serve a healthy yet delicious dessert. It’s great for a mid-afternoon snack with tea or coffee, or as a wholesome dessert for family gatherings. Its light, refreshing orange flavor makes it ideal for spring and summer occasions, while the dates and walnuts provide a rich, comforting taste that’s also perfect for cooler months. Whether it’s a casual weekend treat or a dessert for a special occasion, this cake fits any setting.
Decoration Tips: To give your Gluten-Free Orange and Date Cake a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing it with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also decorate the top with a few extra walnut pieces and slices of fresh orange for a pop of color. If you want to take it a step further, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cake for added sweetness and visual appeal. Serve on a rustic cake stand for a warm, homemade feel that complements the cake’s natural ingredients.
Gluten-Free Orange and Date Cake Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 cup chopped dates
- Walnuts (to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour mix (see below)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
Homemade Gluten-Free Flour Mix:
- 1/2 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup tapioca starch
Instructions:
- Soak the Dates:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped dates with the orange juice. Let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes. This allows the dates to soften and absorb the citrus flavor, which enhances their natural sweetness. - Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a separate bowl, beat the brown sugar and coconut oil together until well combined and slightly creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Once smooth, stir in the dates along with the orange juice they’ve been soaking in. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Gently fold in the walnuts, followed by the gluten-free flour mix and baking powder. Stir the batter until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix, which can affect the texture of the cake. - Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a cake pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.
Enjoy!