Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Date Coffee Cake is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The dates provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The espresso glaze is the real star of the show, giving the cake a rich, coffee-infused finish that will leave you wanting more. It’s not overly sweet but has just the right amount of richness. The best part? It’s simple to make and perfect for anyone who loves coffee-flavored desserts or date-based treats.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 1/2 cups pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (for topping)

For the espresso glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon espresso or strong brewed coffee
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the dates: Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Stir in the baking soda and set aside to soften for about 5-10 minutes.

2. Toast the walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

4. Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Add the date mixture: Puree the softened date mixture (with the water) in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add this to the butter and sugar mixture, and mix until well combined.

6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

7. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×9-inch square pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Prepare the espresso glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, espresso, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more coffee or powdered sugar if needed.

9. Cool and glaze: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the espresso glaze over the top of the cake. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

10. Serve: Slice and serve the Date Coffee Cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the combination of rich, sweet, and nutty flavors!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 10-12 servings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra indulgent treat, stir in some mini chocolate chips to the batter for a hint of chocolate.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this coffee cake.
• Dried fruit variety: Substitute dates with other dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake (without the glaze) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. You can store it at room temperature for a couple of days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just glaze and serve it when ready.

2. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can use other nuts like pecans or almonds, depending on your preference.

3. Can I substitute the dates with another fruit?

Yes, you can substitute dates with raisins, figs, or dried apricots for a different flavor and texture.

4. Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso for the glaze?

Yes, you can substitute regular brewed coffee for espresso if you prefer, although the espresso gives the glaze a more intense coffee flavor.

5. Can I make this cake without the espresso glaze?

Yes, the cake is still delicious on its own without the espresso glaze. You can serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer.

6. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer to cream the butter and sugar, as well as to mix the other ingredients.

7. How do I know when the coffee cake is fully baked?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

8. How do I prevent the walnuts from burning when toasting them?

Keep a close eye on the walnuts while toasting them, as they can burn quickly. Stir them halfway through the toasting process to ensure even browning.

9. Can I use a different sweetener for the glaze?

Yes, you can substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup, though it may alter the texture slightly.

10. Is this coffee cake gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can easily make it so by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is an exceptional dessert that blends the rich flavors of dates and coffee with the crunch of walnuts. The tender cake, combined with the deep coffee-flavored glaze, makes it an unforgettable treat for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to delight your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe.

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