Irresistible Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts & Espresso Glaze

Name: Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates, chopped; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp espresso powder; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee or espresso

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

May 11, 2025

Updated:

May 11, 2025

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The aroma of freshly baked Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze wafts through the air, like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Imagine sinking your fork into its moist, fluffy texture, with hints of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts dancing together in perfect harmony. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a symphony of flavors that serenades your taste buds, making it ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or even a midnight snack when you’re feeling a little indulgent.

Let me take you back to my first encounter with this delightful cake. It was during one of those cozy family gatherings where the coffee flowed as freely as the laughter. Aunt Edna pulled out her secret recipe, and as soon as I took a bite, I felt like I had been transported to dessert heaven. Now, every time I bake this cake, it feels like I’m sharing a piece of that memory—and trust me, it’s worth it! Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The effortless preparation means you’ll spend less time baking and more time enjoying.
The unique flavor profile blends the earthiness of dates with the richness of espresso.
With its stunning presentation, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering.
Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, it’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients for Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pitted Dates: Use fresh or dried dates; they provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift before measuring for lighter texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; brown sugar can enhance the caramel notes.
Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for that perfect rise in your cake.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add crunch and nuttiness; chop them roughly to maintain some texture.
Eggs: These act as binders; use large eggs for best results.
Vegetable Oil: Provides moisture and richness without adding animal fats.
Espresso Powder: A key ingredient in the glaze; use high-quality espresso for robust flavor.

For the Espresso Glaze:

Powdered Sugar: Gives your glaze that smooth finish; sift before using to avoid lumps.
Strong Brewed Coffee or Espresso: Use cooled coffee or espresso to mix into the glaze for depth of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan generously with nonstick cooking spray or butter so that your beautiful creation doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dates

Chop your pitted dates finely. If they’re too dry, soak them in hot water for about ten minutes. Drain well afterward—you want them soft but not soggy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step ensures even distribution of your leavening agent—nobody likes a lumpy cake!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs and vegetable oil until combined. Stir in those finely chopped dates and toasted walnuts until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and fluffy!

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Your Glaze

While your cake cools slightly on a wire rack, combine powdered sugar with brewed coffee or espresso in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over your cooled cake generously.

Transfer to plates once it’s set and serve alongside fresh coffee or tea for an irresistible pairing! Enjoy every crumb as you reminisce about those sweet family gatherings!

You Must Know

This delightful Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a showstopper at any gathering.
The combination of rich flavors and textures makes it a go-to dessert that will impress everyone around the table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients while you soak the dates in hot water. Then, cream the butter and sugar before adding eggs. Finally, fold in the dates and walnuts to create a batter that sings with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans or add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the cake’s flavor profile even more, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh dates for maximum sweetness and moisture in your cake.
Ensure your butter is softened to achieve perfect incorporation with sugar.
Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.

I remember baking this Date Coffee Cake for my best friend’s birthday party. The smiles on everyone’s faces when they took their first bite were priceless! It became an instant classic among our group, bringing us all together over coffee and laughter.

FAQs

What is Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze?

Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of dates and walnuts, enhanced by a smooth espresso glaze. This cake is moist and sweet, making it an ideal treat for coffee lovers. The recipe avoids pork products and animal-derived gelatin, ensuring it can be enjoyed by a wide audience. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or as a comforting dessert after dinner.

How do I store Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze?

To keep your Date Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I substitute walnuts in the Date Coffee Cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds if you have allergies or simply prefer different flavors. Additionally, you could omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version of this cake. Just remember that the texture might change slightly without the crunch of walnuts, but the overall flavor will still be delightful!

Is there a vegan version of Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze?

Absolutely! To make a vegan version of Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze, replace eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Use plant-based milk instead of regular milk in your glaze. With these simple substitutions, you can create a delicious cake that everyone will love while adhering to vegan dietary preferences.

Conclusion for Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze

In summary, Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is a delicious dessert that balances sweetness from dates and richness from walnuts. Its moist texture pairs perfectly with the espresso glaze, making it an exceptional treat for coffee enthusiasts. By following this recipe, you can create a delightful cake that is free from pork products and animal-derived gelatin. Enjoy this scrumptious dessert at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself!

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