Date and Walnut Cake

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Delicious Date and Walnut Cake with rich flavors of walnuts and sweet dates

Date and Walnut Cake (A Vintage Recipe)

Indulge yourself in nostalgia with this delightful Date and Walnut Cake, a vintage recipe that marries the rich flavors of dates and nuts. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a satisfying dessert, this cake brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Follow our easy, step-by-step guide to create this delectable treat, and impress your family and friends with your baking skills!

Ingredients

US Measurements

  • 1 lb dates (chopped fine and pits removed)
  • 2 tbsp baking soda
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs (well-beaten)
  • 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour (you can also use spelt flour)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts (chopped, or pecans)

European Metric

  • 450 g dates (chopped fine and pits removed)
  • 30 g baking soda
  • 500 ml boiling water
  • 115 g unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
  • 200 g brown sugar
  • 100 g white sugar
  • 2 eggs (well-beaten)
  • 375 g unbleached all-purpose flour (you can also use spelt flour)
  • 5 g cinnamon
  • 3 g salt
  • 10 ml vanilla extract
  • 120 g walnuts (chopped, or pecans)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dates: In a large bowl, place the chopped dates and sprinkle with baking soda. This will help soften the dates and enhance their flavor.

  2. Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour the boiling water over the dates, allowing them to soak until the mixture has cooled. This process will rehydrate the dates, making them softer and more flavorful.

  3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

  4. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the well-beaten eggs to the creamed mixture and mix until it’s fully combined and creamy.

  5. Sift and Combine with Flour: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, and salt using a whisk. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

  6. Mix in Vanilla and Dates: Incorporate the vanilla extract, along with the soaked dates (with their water) and the chopped walnuts. Stir until all ingredients are well-blended.

  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.

  8. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so check your cake closely as it approaches the end of the baking time.

  9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Before serving, you may sprinkle the cakes with powdered sugar or top with fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Information

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 calories (varies based on specific ingredients used)

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  1. Soak the Dates: Allowing the dates to soak in boiling water not only softens them but also makes them easier to incorporate into the batter. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.

  2. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! If there are wet crumbs, give it a few more minutes but watch closely to avoid overbaking.

  3. Storage: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months.

Possible Variations

  1. Fruit and Nut Mix: Consider enhancing your cake with additional dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, or raisins, along with a mix of nuts for a more complex flavor and texture.

  2. Spice It Up: Incorporate a blend of spices, such as nutmeg or allspice, along with the cinnamon to give your cake a deeper aromatic profile, perfect for the fall or holiday season.

With this vintage Date and Walnut Cake recipe in your repertoire, you’re sure to bring joy and nostalgia to your kitchen. Happy baking!