Lorraine'S Date Cake
A moist, sweet date cake with nuts, perfect for teatime or dessert, combining rich dates and vanilla flavor for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook dates in boiling water with soda until soft.
- Beat sugar, shortening, egg, and vanilla together.
- Add the beaten mixture to the cooked date mixture.
- Stir in flour, salt, and nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased pan and bake at 350°F until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped dates to simplify the process. To enhance the texture, add a handful of Southern Baked Pecans to the batter. Make sure to fully dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water with the dates to avoid any lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lorraine's Date Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a delightful brunch option, serve with fresh fruit or alongside Orange Shortbread 'Carrots'. This cake also complements a cup of tea or coffee perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it where it can last up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold as a delightful snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lorraine'S Date Cake contains roughly 1298 calories, with 12g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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 dried fruit instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits like figs or apricots, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary. If using dried fruits that are less sweet, consider adding a bit more sugar to maintain the cake's sweetness.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Lorraine's Date Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, especially the baking soda.
What can I do if my batter seems too thick?
If your batter is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to achieve the desired consistency. This will help ensure a moist cake. Be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the final 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).