This Date and Walnut Cake is a delightful confection that masterfully blends the rich, caramel-like sweetness of dates with the earthy crunch of walnuts. Crafted with simple ingredients, this cake offers a moist and tender crumb, making every bite a luxurious experience. The subtle hint of vanilla enhances the natural flavors of the dates and walnuts, creating a harmonious balance that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light.
Why You’ll Love This:
If you appreciate the combination of sweet and nutty flavors, this cake will become a fast favorite. Its moist texture is perfectly complemented by the crunch of walnuts, providing a satisfying contrast in each slice. The cake is not overly sweet, making it an ideal companion to a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring no complex techniques, yet the result is a beautifully sophisticated cake that looks and tastes as if it came from a gourmet bakery.
Perfect Occasion:
This Date and Walnut Cake is versatile enough for almost any occasion. It’s perfect for casual afternoon tea, a family gathering, or as a comforting treat to brighten a regular day. It also makes an excellent dessert for festive occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving, where its rich flavors can be truly appreciated. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home, this cake is sure to impress.
Decoration Tips:
For an elegant finish, dust the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds to its visual appeal but also complements the natural sweetness of the dates. To make it more festive, consider topping it with a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze or decorating with whole walnuts and a sprinkle of chopped dates. If serving for a special occasion, pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate it to a decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
- 150 grams of pitted dates
- 100 grams of walnuts, roughly chopped
- 200 grams of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 eggs
- 75 grams sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 ml neutral vegetable oil (e.g., sunflower oil)
- 25 ml milk
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 20 cm (8-inch) cake tin.
- Chop the dates finely and combine them in a bowl with the chopped walnuts.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla until smooth, then whisk in the vegetable oil.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dates and walnuts, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Pour in the milk and stir again until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of added sweetness.
Enjoy this wonderfully moist and flavorful Date and Walnut Cake, a perfect treat that pairs beautifully with your favorite beverage or as a standalone delight!
