Black Walnut Cake
Black Walnut Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that embodies the rich flavors of black walnuts and sweet dates, accented by a hint of orange. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is a wonderful way to showcase traditional ingredients in a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, measure and sift again with salt and baking soda.
- Cream shortening and sugar, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the dates, black walnuts, orange peel, and vanilla.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 300°F.
- Once baked, pour the orange topping mixture over the cake and allow it to age for at least 24 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Black Walnut Cake, consider using freshly chopped black walnuts instead of pre-packaged ones for a richer taste. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure that the dates are pitted and chopped for even distribution throughout the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete dessert experience, serve alongside a refreshing Herbed Pea Salad to balance the richness of the cake. Drizzle additional orange topping over each slice for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Black Walnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Walnut Cake contains roughly 882 calories, with 15g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% 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 nuts instead of black walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute black walnuts with pecans or walnuts if preferred. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, as black walnuts have a distinct and earthy taste that sets this cake apart.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, allowing the cake to age for 24 hours enhances its flavors. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness before serving.
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).