Canadian Cake
A rich, dense cake with dates and walnuts, flavored with lemon and cinnamon, perfect for special occasions or holiday treats, offering a moist and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and brown sugar together.
- Add lemon juice and well-beaten eggs.
- Add flour and baking powder, flavoring, dates, and nuts.
- Mix until well combined.
- Bake slowly at 325° to 350° for 3 to 4 hours.
- Cut baking time in half when making half the recipe.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Ensure that the dates are pitted and chopped finely for even distribution. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using fresh lemon zest along with the juice.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Mt. Gretna Chocolate Fondue for a decadent dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat or as a delightful end to a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Canadian Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canadian Cake contains roughly 1124 calories, with 9g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cake?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can substitute with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts based on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped to a similar size for even distribution throughout the cake.
What can I do if I don't have brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing white granulated sugar with molasses in a 3:1 ratio. Alternatively, you can use coconut sugar or a blend of white sugar and maple syrup as a substitute, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I freeze the Canadian Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight 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).