Date and Walnut Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy, moist cakes that feel like a warm hug, you are going to adore this Date and Walnut Cake Recipe. It’s one of those rare treats that brilliantly blends natural sweetness from dates with the crunchy richness of walnuts, all while being completely eggless and dairy-free. Perfect for those afternoons when you want something special with your tea or coffee, this cake is simple to make, packed with pantry staples, and delivers a tender crumb that’s bursting with flavor. Trust me, this Date and Walnut Cake Recipe will become your new go-to comfort bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, and luckily, this recipe uses straightforward, accessible items that come together beautifully. Each one plays a role in shaping the perfect moistness, texture, and taste that makes this cake so irresistible.

• 200 g pitted dates: These chopped dates bring rich, natural sweetness and add incredible moisture to the cake.
• 150 ml hot coffee: Coffee enhances the deep flavors in the dates and creates a lovely depth in the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with acidity to help the cake rise and stay light.
• 100 ml olive or neutral oil: Provides moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering flavors.
• 130 g dark muscovado sugar: Adds a robust, molasses-like sweetness and a subtle moistness.
• 80 g vegan Greek-style yogurt or sour cream: Keeps this bake creamy and soft, while keeping it egg and dairy-free.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that perfectly complements the dates and walnuts.
• 250 g all-purpose flour: The base for the structure of the cake, holding everything together.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to boost the cake’s rise for a fluffy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors without being obvious.
• 90 g walnuts: Roughly chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor throughout the cake, plus extra for garnishing.

How to Make Date and Walnut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Dates

Start by combining the chopped dates, baking soda, hot coffee, and olive oil in a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together and leave it to soak for 15 minutes. This step softens the dates and lets the baking soda work its magic, resulting in that wonderful tender crumb and deep flavor we’re after.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

While the dates are soaking, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 1-pound loaf pan with oil or vegan butter, then line it with parchment paper, ensuring there’s a good overhang on the sides. This parchment sling makes lifting the cake out so much easier, and helps keep the loaf intact.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Add the dark muscovado sugar, vegan yogurt, and vanilla extract to the soaked dates mixture. Whisk everything until fully combined; you’ll notice the mixture becoming glossy and fragrant—this is where the magic starts to smell incredible.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sea salt, and chopped walnuts. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the walnuts evenly and ensures that the baking agents are nicely blended before combining with the wet ingredients.

Step 5: Create the Batter

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Fold carefully until there are no visible streaks of flour left, but be careful not to overmix—you want the batter just combined to keep the cake tender.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula or knife. Sprinkle a few whole walnuts on top if you like a rustic look and extra crunch. Place the pan on a baking sheet to help the heat distribute evenly and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Start checking at 45 minutes by inserting a toothpick or knife; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If needed, bake a little longer, checking in 5-minute intervals to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool Properly

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to settle, then transfer it carefully to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid sogginess and allows the flavors to fully develop.

How to Serve Date and Walnut Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, sprinkle a few extra walnuts on top or lightly dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar. For a richer touch, drizzle some vegan caramel sauce or a bit of maple syrup—both complement the dates beautifully while adding an elegant look.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. If you want to get a little fancy, serve alongside a dollop of coconut whipped cream or your favorite vegan ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Date and Walnut Cake Recipe into generous wedges and serve it with fresh fruit like sliced pears or a handful of berries for a fresh twist. You could even cut the loaf into smaller cubes and serve as bite-sized treats at a party or afternoon gathering, making it easy to enjoy the cake without any fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your cake has cooled fully, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist. You can store it at room temperature for up to 5 days if your kitchen is cool, or refrigerate it for up to 7 days, which may slightly firm the texture but keeps the flavors fresh.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! For easy portioning, slice the cake first, separate the slices with parchment paper, then wrap them tightly or place them in a sealed container. It will keep its delightful flavor and texture for up to one month in the freezer.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake fresh from the freezer or fridge, let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, you can heat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven at low heat, which will revive that moist, freshly baked sensation.

FAQs

Can I use another type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts can be great alternatives, offering a different texture and flavor while maintaining the crunch that complements the dates perfectly.

Is it necessary to use coffee in this recipe?

The coffee enhances the depth of flavor, but if you prefer, you can swap it for hot water, chai tea, or even a nut milk. Just know the coffee really helps bring out the rich tones of the dates.

How do I make sure my cake stays moist?

Using ripe, soft dates and not overmixing the batter are key steps. Also, don’t overbake—keeping an eye on that toothpick test helps prevent dryness.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to help with structure. The bake time may vary slightly, so keep a close watch.

Why does the recipe use both baking soda and baking powder?

The baking soda reacts with the acidity in the dates and coffee to help the cake rise and keep it tender, while baking powder gives an additional lift to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about baking a cake that’s simple, wholesome, and downright delicious. This Date and Walnut Cake Recipe checks all those boxes and more, delivering a moist, flavorful slice of comfort that anyone can enjoy—whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just love a great cake. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade happiness. I can’t wait for you to try it!

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