Date cake is a wonderfully moist and naturally sweet dessert, enriched by the richness of dates and the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour. This cake is simple to make and features a delightful blend of flavors, including the optional addition of karkadeh (hibiscus), which can give the cake a subtle floral note or a pop of color. Perfect for teatime or as a healthy treat, this date cake is ideal for those looking for a sugar-free yet indulgent option.
A Touch of History
Dates have been cherished for thousands of years, particularly in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines, where they are prized for their natural sweetness and nutritional benefits. Date-based cakes and desserts are often made during festive occasions or as an everyday indulgence. This version incorporates whole wheat flour for added fiber and health benefits, making it both nourishing and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 15 dates, pitted (adjust the amount based on desired sweetness)
- 1 cup (100 ml) olive oil
- 1 ½ cups (130 ml) milk
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) whole wheat flour
- A little karkadeh (optional, for flavor or color)
- 10 g baking powder
For Decoration (Optional):
- Sugar-free jam
- Dried fruits (such as fropez or other dried fruits of your choice)
- Additional karkadeh (for garnishing)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour a cake mold (preferably a 26 cm mold, though a smaller mold can be used if you prefer a thicker cake).
2. Prepare the Date Mixture
- Start by pitting 15 dates (if they aren’t already pitted) and blending them into a paste. If your dates are particularly dry, you can soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes beforehand to soften them.
- In a large bowl, crack 3 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Beat the eggs until they are light and fluffy, which helps give the cake a soft, airy texture.
- Gradually fold the date paste into the egg mixture, ensuring the dates are well incorporated. The dates will provide natural sweetness to the cake, reducing the need for additional sugar.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
- Once the dates and eggs are well combined, pour in 1 cup (100 ml) of olive oil and 1 ½ cups (130 ml) of milk. Stir the mixture until everything is smooth and well blended. The olive oil adds moisture and richness, while the milk ensures a tender crumb.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups (250 g) of whole wheat flour, 10 g of baking powder, and, if desired, a bit of karkadeh (hibiscus) for a unique flavor or a splash of color. If using karkadeh, be mindful of how much you add, as it can impart a tart flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding the batter gently until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
5. Bake the Cake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared mold, spreading it evenly.
- Place the mold in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The cake should be golden brown on top, with a lovely, slightly dense texture from the dates and whole wheat flour.
6. Cool and Decorate (Optional)
- Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the mold.
- For a decorative touch, spread a thin layer of sugar-free jam over the top of the cooled cake. This adds a glossy finish and complements the natural sweetness of the dates.
- Garnish the top with dried fropez (or any dried fruit of your choice) and additional karkadeh petals for a beautiful, rustic look. The dried fruits add a lovely chew and extra bursts of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 18 g (natural sugars from dates)
- Sodium: 240 mg
Conclusion
This Date Cake offers a wholesome, naturally sweet dessert that’s perfect for those looking for a healthy yet flavorful treat. With the rich sweetness of dates, the heartiness of whole wheat flour, and the optional floral notes of karkadeh, this cake is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
