Easy Date and Nut Cake
If you’re on the hunt for a cake that’s cozy, naturally sweet, and packed with delightful textures, this Easy Date and Nut Cake is your new best friend. Imagine the warm, caramel-like sweetness of dates mingling with the satisfying crunch of nuts, all wrapped up in a moist, tender crumb that feels like a hug in every bite. It’s one of those cakes that’s perfect with a cup of tea, yet fancy enough to impress guests. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become your go-to dessert.
Why You’ll Love Easy Date and Nut Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual afternoon treat, or simply because you deserve a little sweetness, this cake fits all moods. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and no fancy ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Comes together quickly with minimal fuss, great for beginners.
Customizable: Swap nuts or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients in Easy Date and Nut Cake
This cake is all about wholesome goodness and sweet surprises:
Dates: Chopped finely, they bring natural sweetness and moisture.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Flour and Baking Powder: Create the tender cake base.
Sugar: For balanced sweetness.
Eggs and Butter: Bind and enrich the batter, making it moist and tender.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma.
Optional Spices: Cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and spices. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Fold in chopped dates and nuts gently.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Grease and flour a cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 280
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Easy Date and Nut Cake
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve with a warm cup of tea or coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
– Chop dates finely to distribute sweetness evenly.
– Toast nuts lightly to bring out their flavor.
– Store cake in an airtight container to keep it moist.
– Add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
FAQ’s
1 Can I use other nuts?
Yes, almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts all work wonderfully.
2 Can I substitute dates with raisins?
Raisins can be used but dates add more moisture and sweetness.
3 Is this cake gluten-free?
Not as is, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends.
4 How should I store the cake?
Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate.
5 Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
6 Can I make this cake vegan?
Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes like flax eggs.
7 What if my cake is too dry?
Try adding a bit more butter or reduce baking time slightly.
8 Can I add spices?
Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice enhance the flavor.
9 How do I prevent dates from sinking?
Toss chopped dates in a little flour before folding into the batter.
10 Can I make muffins instead?
Yes, bake in muffin tins for 15–20 minutes for a portable treat.
Conclusion
Easy Date and Nut Cake is a delightful blend of sweet, nutty, and tender that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is a simple, satisfying way to bring a little warmth and sweetness to your day. So preheat that oven and get ready to fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of homemade goodness your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Date and Nut Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Date and Nut Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert packed with sweet dates and crunchy nuts. Perfect for any occasion, it’s simple to make and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups chopped dates
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, combine chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let sit for 15 minutes to soften the dates.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Stir in the date mixture (including liquid) and chopped nuts until combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For added moisture, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
- Use chopped dried figs or raisins as a substitute for dates if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: date and nut cake, easy cake recipe, moist dessert, walnut cake, sweet date cake