Date and Walnut Cake: A Delightful Treat
Focus Keyword: Date and Walnut Cake
Looking for a sweet and satisfying dessert that marries the rich flavors of dates with the crunch of walnuts? Look no further than this date and walnut cake. This moist and decadent cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, afternoon tea, or even a casual snack. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients List
To make the delicious date and walnut cake, gather the following ingredients:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted dates (chopped)
- 1 cup walnuts (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup water (boiling)
Timing
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing involved in making your date and walnut cake:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes — quick and easy to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare Dates
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to soften and plump up. Afterward, stir in the baking soda and set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, blending until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture, and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Add Walnuts
Fold in the chopped walnuts gently into the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve, either plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional overview for one serving of date and walnut cake (based on a recipe yielding 10 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
This cake is not only tastefully sweet but also packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Consider these modifications to make your date and walnut cake even healthier:
- Whole Grain Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Nut Butter: Swap butter for almond or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Natural Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a sugar alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your date and walnut cake with these serving ideas:
- With Cream: Serve with whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat.
- With Tea: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Topped with Fruits: Top with fresh fruits like berries for added freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Softening Dates: Ensure dates are soft enough to blend well into the batter; soaking in hot water helps.
- Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid a dry cake; check for doneness a few minutes early.
- Mismeasuring Ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Here’s how to store your date and walnut cake:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze slices in plastic wrap and then in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Conclusion
In summary, date and walnut cake is a delightful treat perfect for all occasions. Its unique flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for both casual and special events. So why not give this recipe a try? Enjoy baking and savoring this fantastic cake!
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FAQs
Can I substitute different nuts in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to use pecans, almonds, or any nuts of your choice for a different flavor profile.
Is this cake suitable for vegans?
You can modify this recipe to be vegan by using flax eggs or applesauce instead of regular eggs and substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I use fresh dates instead of dried?
Fresh dates will have more moisture, which might affect the cake’s texture. If using fresh dates, you may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly.
Can I add spices to the cake?
Absolutely! Cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to enhance the flavor of the cake.