Date Walnut Traybake Cake: Delicious 15-min Bake

Date Walnut Traybake Cake has been a staple in my baking repertoire for years, bringing a comforting warmth to any afternoon. I remember the first time I tried making this, the sweet, sticky aroma of dates mingling with toasted walnuts filled my kitchen, promising pure deliciousness. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a hug in a slice, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of tea. If you’ve ever wondered what is date walnut traybake cake, it’s essentially a wonderfully moist, dense cake packed with the natural sweetness of dates and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, all baked conveniently in a tray. This date and walnut traybake recipe is so straightforward, you’ll want to make it again and again. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Date Walnut Traybake Cake

You’re going to adore this cake for so many reasons! It’s a delightful treat that ticks all the boxes for a perfect bake.

• The flavor is incredible – a rich, sweet taste from the dates combined with the nutty crunch of walnuts.
• It’s wonderfully moist, thanks to the date soaking method, making it a truly satisfying bite.
• Prep time is super quick, usually under 15 minutes, making it an ideal easy date and walnut traybake for busy days.
• It’s a budget-friendly bake, using simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
• It’s a family favorite that everyone, from kids to grandparents, will enjoy.
• This easy date and walnut traybake is so forgiving, even beginner bakers will achieve fantastic results.
• It’s a versatile dessert that’s perfect for afternoon tea or a comforting after-dinner treat.

Ingredients for Date Walnut Traybake Cake

Gathering your ingredients is the first step in creating this delightful date walnut bake recipe. The star players here are the dates and walnuts, which give this cake its signature flavor and texture. We’ll also need a few pantry staples to bring it all together.

• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped – these create a wonderfully moist and sweet base
• 1 cup boiling water – used to soften the dates and activate the baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the dates break down and adds a slight lift
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – for richness and a tender crumb
• ¾ cup brown sugar – adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness
• 2 large eggs – bind the ingredients and contribute to texture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour – the structure of the cake
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – provides extra lift for a lighter cake
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and brings out flavors
• ¾ cup chopped walnuts – for that essential crunchy texture

How to Make Date Walnut Traybake Cake

Let’s get baking! This recipe makes how to make date walnut traybake incredibly simple and rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how easily this delicious cake comes together.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get the oven to the right temperature before you start mixing. Line a 9×13 inch traybake pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, place your 1 cup pitted dates, chopped. Carefully pour 1 cup boiling water over them. Stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the dates start to soften and break down, creating a wonderfully moist base for our cake.
3. Step 3: While the dates are soaking, grab a large bowl. Cream the ½ cup unsalted butter, softened and ¾ cup brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where you build the cake’s tender texture. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic comforting aroma.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures they are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent bake.
5. Step 5: Now, it’s time to combine everything. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the softened date mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix! Gently stir in the ¾ cup chopped walnuts for that delightful crunch. This is a crucial step in how to make date walnut traybake.
6. Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared traybake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top. Make sure the batter reaches all corners for an even bake.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!
8. Step 8: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Step 9: Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar if you like, or serve it plain. Enjoy your delicious homemade date walnut traybake cake!

Pro Tips for the Best Date Walnut Traybake

Elevating your bake is easy with these insider tips. They ensure your cake is not only delicious but also perfectly textured every time.

• Soaking the dates with baking soda is crucial; it breaks them down for a super moist cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. A gentle fold is all you need to keep the cake tender.
• Ensure your ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best emulsification and texture.
• For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

What’s the secret to perfect Date Walnut Traybake Cake?

The real secret to a perfect, moist date walnut traybake lies in soaking the dates with boiling water and baking soda. This process breaks down the dates, creating a naturally sweet, sticky base that infuses the entire cake with moisture and rich flavor. For more baking insights, check out these tips on the beauty of food.

Can I make Date Walnut Traybake Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead treat. You can prepare the batter and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The finished simple date walnut traybake also keeps well at room temperature for a couple of days, or longer in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Date Walnut Traybake Cake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a tough cake. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; too hot can dry out the dates, while too cool can prevent a proper bake. Understanding oven temperatures is key, similar to how precise temperatures are important for cooking sea bream fish.

Best Ways to Serve Date Walnut Traybake Cake

This versatile cake is wonderful on its own, but serving it with a few simple additions can elevate it from a simple treat to a truly special occasion. It’s perfect as a comforting date and walnut dessert traybake.

• Enjoy a warm slice with a dollop of clotted cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche. The cool, creamy texture is a delightful contrast to the warm cake.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar makes it feel extra decadent for an afternoon tea or coffee break.
• For a more substantial dessert, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a light fruit salad. The sweetness of the cake pairs beautifully with the tartness of fresh berries. Consider pairing it with a refreshing mint raspberry julep.

Variations of Date Walnut Traybake Cake You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! There are so many delicious ways to adapt this recipe to suit your needs and tastes. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or just feeling adventurous, these variations offer delightful twists on the original.

• Vegan Date Walnut Traybake: To make a wonderful vegan date walnut traybake, simply swap the butter for a good quality vegan butter or coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes) instead of chicken eggs. Ensure your sugar is also vegan-friendly. For other vegan options, explore our vegan recipes.
• Gluten-Free Date Walnut Traybake: For those avoiding gluten, a gluten-free date walnut traybake is easily achievable. Use a good gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different, but the delicious dates and walnuts will still shine through.
• Spiced Date Walnut Traybake: Elevate the flavor by adding warming spices. A teaspoon of cinnamon, half a teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves mixed with the dry ingredients will create a beautifully spiced cake perfect for autumn.
• Traybake Cake with Dates and Walnuts (Loaf Cake Style): If you don’t have a traybake pan, you can bake this batter in a loaf pan. Adjust the baking time, likely needing an extra 10-15 minutes, and check for doneness with a skewer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Date Walnut Traybake Cake

Can I freeze Date Walnut Traybake Cake?

Yes, you absolutely can! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. For a quick treat, just grab a slice and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to have a delicious slice of cake ready whenever you fancy one.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

If you have a nut allergy or simply don’t have walnuts on hand, pecans are a fantastic substitute. They offer a similar rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch. You could also try chopped almonds or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. When baking date walnut traybake cake, the texture is key, and these alternatives provide it.

How do I make a quick date walnut traybake recipe?

This recipe is already quite quick! To speed things up even more, make sure your dates are pre-pitted. You can also chop them while the oven preheats. Using a stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar can save a little arm work. The key is having everything prepped and ready to go before you start mixing. For more quick recipes, explore our recipe category.

What makes this cake so moist?

The magic behind the incredible moisture in this cake comes from soaking the dates with boiling water and baking soda. This process softens the dates beautifully and creates a naturally sweet, sticky base that infuses moisture throughout the entire cake. It’s a simple trick that makes a huge difference!

Nutrition Facts for Date Walnut Traybake Cake

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delightful cake. It offers a good balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying treat.

• Calories: 260
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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