Date and Walnut Traybake Cake
Let me tell you, this Date and Walnut Traybake Cake has been my kitchen sidekick on many chilly afternoons. Picture the scent of sweet dates mingling with toasted walnuts, wafting through your home like a warm hug. It’s one of those cakes that’s as comforting as a soft blanket but with a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s super forgiving—great for when you want a fuss-free bake that feels fancy enough to share. Ready to get cozy with this? Let’s dive right in!
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 cup chopped dates (pitted)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by placing the chopped dates in a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Stir in the baking soda, then let this mixture steep for about 15 minutes. This softens the dates and creates a beautiful, slightly syrupy base for the cake.
Step 2:
While that’s soaking, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until they’re fragrant and golden. Watch them closely so they don’t burn—this boosts their nutty flavor perfectly!
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside; this dry mix will come together with the wet ingredients soon.
Step 4:
Now, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy and pale. This takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
Step 5:
Fold the date mixture (including any remaining liquid), toasted walnuts, and dry flour mix into the butter mixture. Don’t overmix—just combine everything gently until you have a thick, batter-like consistency with chunks of walnuts and dates.
Step 6:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for 15 minutes before slicing into squares!
Variations & Tips
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty twist.
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.
- If your batter looks too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.
- Use pitted dates soaked overnight for an even more luscious date flavor.
- For a quicker bake, spread batter in a longer, thinner pan and reduce baking time to 30 minutes—just keep an eye on it!
How I Like to Serve It
This traybake is fabulous slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert fix. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee on a rainy afternoon. Trust me, it’s the kind of treat that turns an ordinary day into a cozy celebration.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that freshly baked warmth.
Closing: This Date and Walnut Traybake Cake always hits the spot when you want something sweet, cozy, and effortlessly delicious—your go-to cake for every occasion.
Hi, I’m Lina, the creator of Lina Easy Recipes.
Cooking has always been my passion, and I love sharing simple, homemade dishes that anyone can prepare.
