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Nutty Date and Walnut Cake with a Hint of Warm Spices

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A rich, moist loaf cake featuring the natural sweetness of dates, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (for soaking dates)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (for batter)

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup chopped dates

3/4 cup boiling water

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

3/4 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
  2. In a bowl, combine the chopped dates with boiling water and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Let it soak for 15 minutes to soften.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
  6. Add the soaked date mixture and mix until well combined.
  7. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
  8. Fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few for topping.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with extra walnuts.
  10. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use Medjool or Deglet Noor dates for best results.
  • For added moisture, ensure dates are well soaked and avoid overbaking.
  • You can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
  • To make it vegan, use plant-based butter and flax eggs.
  • Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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