Moist Date Cake

Ingredients:

 

• • 1 cup (150 g) pitted dates, chopped
  • 1 cup (250 ml) hot water
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

 

• • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) sugar
  • 2 large eggs

 

• • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

 

• • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • A pinch of salt

 

Directions:

• Prepare the Date Mixture:
  • • Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour the hot water over them.
    • Stir in the baking soda and let it sit for 10 minutes to soften the dates.

   

• Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
  • • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease and flour an 8-inch (20 cm) round or square baking pan.

   
• Make the Batter:
  • • In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

   

  • • Mix in the vanilla extract.
    • Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt in a separate bowl.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

   

• Bake the Cake:
  • • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   
• Cool and Serve:
  • • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
    • Serve plain, with powdered sugar, or drizzled with caramel sauce.

   

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

 

• • Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
  • Drizzle with homemade caramel or toffee sauce for an indulgent dessert.
  • Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

 

• Serve warm with a side of cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • Ensure the dates are finely chopped for even distribution throughout the cake.

 

• • For extra richness, substitute brown sugar for part of the granulated sugar.
  • Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for variety.
  • If using dried dates, soak them in hot water for an additional 5 minutes.

 

• Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to retain its shape.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants.

 

• A good source of energy and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings naturally.

Dietary Information:

• • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.

 

• Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Based on 10 Slices):

 

• • Calories: 220

 

• • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fat: 8g

 

• Fiber: 2g

Storage:

• • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

 

• Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.