Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts Recipe

If you love the idea of a cake that marries rich coffee flavor with natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch, you’re going to adore this Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts. This delightful dessert combines the deep, robust notes of freshly brewed espresso with luscious chopped dates that melt into the batter, creating a moist and flavorful cake. The walnuts add a wonderful earthy crunch, making every bite a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it with your morning coffee or as a cozy afternoon treat, this cake will quickly become a favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential to crafting a cake that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and just the right richness. Each element plays its part: from the dates bringing natural sweetness and moisture, to the espresso infusing that irresistible coffee essence, and the walnuts providing a nutty, crunchy contrast.

• Chopped pitted dates (150g / 1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
• Freshly brewed hot espresso (180ml / 3/4 cup): Infuses the batter with a bold coffee flavor that’s the star of this recipe.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Reacts with the espresso for lightness and a tender crumb.
• All-purpose flour or gluten-free blend (120g / 1 cup): Forms the cake’s soft structure; choose your preference.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the espresso perfectly.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Coconut sugar or brown sugar (100g / 1/2 cup): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness with a hint of complexity.
• Olive oil or melted butter (80ml / 1/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist and adds a lovely richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness.
• Chopped walnuts (80g / 2/3 cup), plus extra for topping: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.

How to Make Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dates and Espresso Mixture

Start by combining your chopped dates with the freshly brewed hot espresso in a bowl. Stir in the baking soda and let the mixture rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step softens the dates beautifully and the baking soda reacts with the espresso’s acidity, helping your cake develop a tender crumb and gentle rise.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

While the dates soak, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This blend of dry ingredients provides the base for your cake and infuses it with a subtle spice that perfectly complements the espresso’s boldness.

Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs together with the coconut or brown sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and light. Then add in your olive oil or melted butter along with the vanilla extract, combining everything until smooth. This mixture brings moisture, richness, and sweetness into the batter, ensuring a soft and flavorful cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Soaked Date Mixture

Pour the soaked date and espresso mixture into your wet egg mixture. Stir thoroughly, allowing all those luscious flavors to meld together perfectly, setting the stage for your cake’s signature taste.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Walnuts

Gently add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet batter, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Then fold in the chopped walnuts, which add both texture and a delightful nuttiness. The batter should be thick and slightly chunky with those beautiful walnut bits dispersed throughout.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into a greased or lined 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan, then sprinkle extra walnuts on top for an inviting crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and your kitchen is filled with the amazing aroma of espresso and spices.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the perfect time to admire your creation and anticipate the first delicious slice!

How to Serve Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey complements the rich coffee flavors without overpowering them. For extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—both soak up the cake’s espresso notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced pears or figs, which add a juicy freshness that balances the density of the cake. You can also enjoy it alongside a warm cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a truly comforting treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving warm slices topped with a swirl of mascarpone or ricotta cheese and a few toasted walnut halves. You can even cut the cake into petite squares and arrange on a dessert platter for sharing at a gathering—an instant conversation starter thanks to its intoxicating aroma and flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts stores beautifully at room temperature when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying a slice with morning coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cake longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To bring your leftover cake back to life, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 150°C / 300°F) for 10 minutes. This revives the cake’s moist texture and enhances the rich espresso aroma, making each bite irresistible again.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

You can substitute strong brewed instant coffee, but keep in mind the flavor won’t be quite as rich or complex as with freshly brewed espresso. Espresso adds a uniquely deep and bold character that’s key to this cake’s signature taste.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that can be used cup for cup. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for best results.

Can I replace walnuts with another nut?

Yes, chopped pecans or hazelnuts work beautifully here, giving a similar crunch and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the espresso and dates. Just keep the quantity the same.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The cake will also start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan when done.

Could this cake be made into cupcakes?

Definitely! Use a muffin tin lined with paper cups and fill each about two-thirds full. Bake at the same temperature but reduce the baking time to about 18 to 22 minutes—just keep an eye on them as ovens vary.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a unique cake that feels both cozy and elegant, look no further than the Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts. It’s a wonderfully moist, flavorful cake that brings together wholesome ingredients with a touch of sophistication. Whether shared with friends or savored quietly with a cup of coffee, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every bite!

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