Date Orange Cake
A moist and flavorful date orange cake blending sweet dates, zesty orange peel, and crunchy pecans, perfect for teatime or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add beaten eggs to the mixture and blend well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, soda, and other dry ingredients.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Fold in chopped dates, pecans, and orange peel.
- Pour batter into a prepared baking pan and bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped finely for even distribution in the batter. If you like a little zest, add extra orange peel to enhance the citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful served plain, but you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. It also pairs beautifully with Fruit Slaw for a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date Orange Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes to restore its moistness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Orange Cake contains roughly 2261 calories, with 39g protein, 369g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (413% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (187% of the Daily Value), and protein (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 52g 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 substitute the chopped dates with another fruit?
Yes, you can use dried figs or raisins as a substitute for chopped dates, although the flavor will differ. If using fresh fruits, like chopped apples, adjust baking time as they contain more moisture.
What type of flour is best for this cake?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, providing the right structure and texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary.
Is it necessary to use pecans in this cake?
Pecans add a lovely crunch and flavor, but if you have nut allergies or prefer a different taste, you can omit them or replace them with walnuts or sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
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).