Description
A moist and nutty Date and Walnut Cake featuring sweet, tender dates and crunchy walnuts, perfectly balanced with a soft crumb. This classic loaf cake is easy to make and ideal for tea time or dessert.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Cake Batter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Soften the dates: In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates with boiling water. Stir in the baking soda and let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes to soften and enhance flavor.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the sugar, butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding airiness to the batter. Then stir in the softened date mixture until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Form the batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Add walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts gently to distribute them evenly without breaking the nuts or deflating the batter.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is cooked through.
- Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure dates are chopped finely to distribute flavor throughout the cake.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake tender.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
