Date and Walnut Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, dates, walnuts, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in vanilla.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool cake in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan to wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Verdict:

This Date and Walnut Cake is a perfect combination of sweetness and nuttiness. The soft, moist texture of the cake melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with the crunchy chopped walnuts. The flavors are well-balanced, making it an excellent choice for an afternoon tea or dessert.

Serving Suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh berries on top.
• Warm the cake slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.