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Easy Moist Date Cake

Easy Moist Date Cake
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This Easy Moist Date Cake is a comforting and flavorful dessert that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Bursting with natural sweetness from dates, it features a tender crumb and moist texture that stays fresh for days. Ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, offering a rich, caramel-like flavor with minimal added sugar. Versatile and customizable, it can be adapted to dietary needs and enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped dates
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter or oil (for dairy-free option, use coconut oil)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for gluten-free version)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., toasted walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom (for spiced flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates: Chop the dates into small pieces and place them in a bowl with baking soda. Pour boiling water over the dates to soften them and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to develop a tender texture and rich caramel flavor.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter (or oil) and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, keeping the cake soft and preventing density.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract to create a smooth, aromatic batter base.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour (or gluten-free flour) into the wet mixture gently to avoid lumps, then fold carefully to retain a light, airy batter.
  5. Mix Dates into Batter: Stir the softened dates along with their soaking liquid into the batter. The resulting mixture will be moist and slightly thick, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake tin. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh, plump dates for optimal moisture and natural sweetness.
  • Do not overmix the batter to prevent a dense texture.
  • Begin checking the cake at 40 minutes to avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures vary.
  • Choose good-quality, unsalted butter for the richest flavor.
  • Allow the date mixture to soak to intensify flavor and softness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/easy-moist-date-cake/