Hey there, fellow bakers and dessert lovers! I’m so thrilled you’ve stopped by my little corner of the internet today. If you’re anything like me, there’s something truly magical about the aroma of baked goods wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy hug. Today, we’re diving into a delicious recipe that’s not just easy to whip up but is also packed with nutrients and flavor – the Date and Walnut Cake. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one!
Why You’ll Love This Date and Walnut Cake
Alright, let’s talk about what makes this Date and Walnut Cake so special. First off, this cake is not your typical sugary dessert. It’s naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, which brings a rich, caramel-like flavor while also packing in fiber and vitamins. You’ll love how easy it is to pull together, and the best part? It’s gluten-free if you use the right flour!
The blend of creamy avocado oil adds moisture without any overpowering flavors. Plus, walnut pieces not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring a lovely crunch and additional healthy fats. Whether you’re serving it at a tea party or enjoying it as a midnight snack (I won’t tell!), this cake is sure to impress.
Step-by-Step: Making Date and Walnut Cake
Let’s jump right into the process of making this delightful dessert!
Ingredients
To create this scrumptious cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 Medjool dates (pitted)
- 1 cup milk (any kind, including vegan milks)
- 1/2 cup avocado oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- Walnuts (halves or crushed pieces, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Prepare your pan by lining a small 7-inch springform pan with parchment paper. A little trick – spray the pan with oil beforehand so that the parchment sticks nicely to it.
- Heat the milk in a pot until it comes to a gentle simmer. You can also warm it up in a bowl in the microwave.
- Soak the dates by placing them in a bowl and pouring the hot milk over them. Allow this to sit for about 10-15 minutes until the dates are nice and soft.
- Blend it up! Transfer the softened dates and milk into a blender and blend until you achieve a thick date paste.
- Pour this mixture into a bowl, add in the avocado oil, and mix until everything is well combined.
- Stir in the self-rising flour until the batter is smooth and pourable.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and gently shake it from side to side to ensure an even distribution.
- Top it off with walnut pieces, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Slice a piece and enjoy it warm!
Best Ways to Serve Date and Walnut Cake
This lovely cake can be enjoyed in multiple delightful ways. Serve it fresh out of the oven as a warm, comforting treat. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
For a more refined touch, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top before serving. You could also sprinkle some additional crushed walnuts for that extra crunch. Consider pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon break.
How to Store Leftover Date and Walnut Cake
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be unlikely, but just in case!), here’s how to keep your cake fresh for longer:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, place it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about five days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: You can also freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will last for about three months. Just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Pro Tips for Making Date and Walnut Cake
Baking is all about experimenting, but here are a few expert tips to make sure your Date and Walnut Cake turns out perfectly:
- Use Soft Dates: Always opt for fresh, soft Medjool dates for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the soaking: Soaking the dates in hot milk not only helps them to soften but also enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Check your oven temperature: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your cake while it bakes to avoid over-baking or under-baking.
- Garnish creatively: Feel free to get creative with garnishes! Chopped pistachios or shredded coconut can add a nice twist.
Delicious Variations of Date and Walnut Cake
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations you can explore:
- Add spices: Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Dark chocolate: Fold in some dark chocolate chunks into the batter before baking for an extra indulgent treat.
- Dried fruits: Incorporate other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots alongside the dates for a fruity explosion!
FAQs
1. Can I replace the milk with a non-dairy option?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any other vegan milk can work perfectly in this recipe.
2. Is self-rising flour necessary?
Self-rising flour provides the leavening needed for the cake to rise. If you don’t have any, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour mix, and you’re set to enjoy this delightful cake gluten-free!
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s bake some unforgettable Date and Walnut Cake together. I can’t wait for you to taste this beauty and share it with your loved ones! Happy baking, friends!
Print
Date and Walnut Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful and healthy cake naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates (pitted)
- 1 cup milk (any kind, including vegan milks)
- 1/2 cup avocado oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- Walnuts (halves or crushed pieces, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line a small 7-inch springform pan with parchment paper and spray with oil.
- Heat the milk in a pot until it simmers.
- Soak the dates by pouring hot milk over them and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the softened dates and milk until smooth.
- Add avocado oil and mix until combined.
- Stir in self-rising flour until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with walnut pieces.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
For a refined touch, serve with whipped cream, honey, or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg