Orange-Date-Nut Cake
A moist, flavorful orange-date-nut cake that combines the bright citrus zest with sweet dates and crunchy nuts, perfect for special occasions or afternoon tea. Its rich texture and vibrant flavors appeal to all ages, offering a delightful treat with a hint of orange and a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- While hot, punch many holes with an ice pick.
- Pour glaze over the hot cake.
- Let stand several hours before serving.
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 using milk and vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance the nutty taste, toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Orange-Date-Nut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with candied orange peel or additional chopped nuts on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange-Date-Nut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. If freezing, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Date-Nut Cake contains roughly 617 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 972mg per serving (42% 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 pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure the nuts are chopped similarly to maintain the cake's texture. Each type of nut will bring a different flavor profile, enhancing the cake's overall taste.
What can I use if I don't have chopped dates?
If you can't find chopped dates, you can replace them with raisins or dried apricots. While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives will still add sweetness and texture to the cake. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Additionally, the cake should pull away slightly from the sides of the pan. If it needs more time, continue baking and check every 5-10 minutes.
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).