Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts is a delightful dessert that marries the rich flavors of espresso with sweet dates and crunchy walnuts. This cake is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re serving it at brunch, enjoying it as an afternoon snack, or presenting it at dinner parties. Its moist texture and comforting aroma make it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this cake is perfect even for novice bakers.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of espresso, dates, and walnuts creates a unique taste experience that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you enjoy it warm with coffee or cold as a snack, this cake fits any occasion effortlessly.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking journey, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake Pan: A good-quality pan helps ensure even baking and easy release of the cake.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for organized mixing without cross-contamination of ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: These tools help achieve the right consistency in your batter, resulting in a fluffy cake.

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Ingredients

To create the delicious Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cake Base

• 150g (1 cup) chopped pitted dates
• 180ml (3/4 cup) freshly brewed hot espresso
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 120g (1 cup) all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Wet Mixture

• 2 large eggs
• 100g (1/2 cup) coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 80ml (1/3 cup) olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

• 80g (2/3 cup) chopped walnuts, plus extra for topping

How to Make Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease or line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan to prepare for pouring in your batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Date-Espresso Mixture

In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and hot espresso. Stir in the baking soda. Let this mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until frothy. Then add olive oil and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the date-espresso mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are fully integrated.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently stir in the dry ingredient mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped walnuts to add crunchiness.

Step 7: Transfer Batter to Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan. Sprinkle extra walnuts on top for added texture.

Step 8: Bake

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Step 9: Cool Down

Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

And there you have it—your homemade Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts! Enjoy this delicious treat with friends or savor it all on your own!

How to Serve Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing with your favorite coffee or tea enhances the rich flavors of the cake.
• The warmth of the beverages complements the moist texture of the cake perfectly.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
• Consider using coconut cream for a dairy-free option that pairs wonderfully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey brings extra sweetness and depth.
• This is especially delightful if you prefer a more natural sweetener.

Served Warm

• Enjoying the cake warm makes it even more comforting.
• Simply heat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruits

• Fresh fruits like berries or slices of banana add freshness and balance to the cake.
• Create a colorful fruit platter to enhance your dessert spread.

How to Perfect Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

To achieve the best results with your Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion can elevate your baking experience and ensure delicious outcomes.

• Use Fresh Dates: Fresh dates offer better flavor and moisture. Avoid dried out dates for the best texture.
• Brew Strong Espresso: Make sure your espresso is strong enough to infuse rich coffee flavor into the cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly for even baking. An oven thermometer can help verify accuracy.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool completely enhances its flavor and makes slicing easier.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Pairing side dishes with your Espresso Date Cake can enhance its rich flavors and provide balance. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds tanginess, making it a perfect complement to the sweet cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding provides a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cake’s density.
4. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy macaroons provide an interesting texture contrast while echoing flavors from the cake.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Spreading almond or cashew butter on warm slices adds richness and healthy fats.
6. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce elevates indulgence, appealing to chocolate lovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even experienced bakers make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts.

• Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak the dates in espresso can lead to a dry cake. Always allow the dates to absorb moisture for better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can make the cake tough. Stir gently until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cake. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the baking time and result in an uneven bake. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before starting.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or flour can impact the rise and flavor of your cake. Check expiration dates and use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Not cooling completely before serving: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Allow your Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts to cool completely for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy identification.

Reheating Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F) and heat wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts.

Can I substitute other nuts?

Yes! Feel free to use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent like xanthan gum.

What can I serve with Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts?

This cake pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Can I add additional flavors?

Absolutely! Consider adding orange zest or chocolate chips for extra flavor dimensions in your cake.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them as needed.

Is Espresso Date Cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! Its rich flavors and moist texture make it perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings alike.

Final Thoughts

Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts is a delightful dessert that combines rich espresso flavor with sweet dates and crunchy walnuts. This versatile recipe is perfect not only as a dessert but also as a comforting snack or breakfast option. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding chocolate chips or other nuts to make it your own!

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Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts, a moist and rich dessert that perfectly balances the robust essence of espresso with the natural sweetness of dates and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. This easy-to-make cake is ideal for any occasion—whether served at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a centerpiece dessert at dinner gatherings. Its inviting aroma and comforting texture will win over your guests and make it a favorite in your recipe collection.

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150g chopped pitted dates
• 180ml freshly brewed hot espresso
• 120g all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
• 2 large eggs
• 100g coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 80ml olive oil or melted butter
• 80g chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped dates with hot espresso and baking soda; let sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, mix eggs and sugar until frothy. Add olive oil and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the date-espresso mixture until well combined.
6. Gently fold in dry ingredients and walnuts until just mixed.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle extra walnuts on top, and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before serving.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 75g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating orange zest or chocolate chips into the batter. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for longer shelf life.