Aunt Nora'S Date Cake
A moist, flavorful date cake with warm cinnamon and nutmeats, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoon tea with rich, sweet, and spiced notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, salt, and cinnamon together.
- Pour hot water over dates, add soda, and let cool.
- Cream sugar and shortening until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla to the creamed mixture and beat well.
- Stir in the cooled date mixture.
- Mix flour and broken nutmeats together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat until combined.
- Pour the batter into well-oiled loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/4 hours or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh dates and ensure they are pitted and diced finely. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To enhance the cake's texture, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans. This cake is also perfect for breakfast or as a snack, similar to Nut Gems.
Serving Suggestions
This date cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a breakfast treat, enjoy a slice with coffee or tea. It also makes a wonderful addition to brunch spreads, alongside pastries and fruit. Consider serving it with Citrus Oak Snack Bars for a varied experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nora'S Date Cake contains roughly 288 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the nutmeats with your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just be sure to chop them into smaller pieces to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the cake.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if your date cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes before checking again.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This date cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day in advance, store it properly, and serve it at room temperature or warmed up for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).