Date Cake with Almond Glaze

Name: Date Cake with Almond Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup dates (pitted and chopped); 1 cup boiling water; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 eggs (room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tbsp milk (or as needed); 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)

65 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Date Cake with Almond Glaze

A moist and flavourful date cake topped with a rich almond glaze, perfect for any special occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Date cake with almond glaze is a delightful dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty richness of almonds. This cake is a favourite in many Canadian households, celebrated for its moist texture and irresistible flavour. The combination of dates and almonds not only tastes heavenly but also offers a delightful contrast in texture. The cake's softness is beautifully complemented by the smooth glaze, making every bite a joyous experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple family gathering, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Servings

Cake

Almond Glaze

Instructions

Prepare the dates

In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over them and let sit for 10 minutes to soften.

Pro tip: This step helps to create a moist texture in the cake.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Pro tip: Ensure even baking by using a shiny, light-coloured pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the date mixture. Mix until just combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix to keep the cake tender.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Check the cake at 40 minutes as oven temperatures can vary.

Prepare the glaze

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if necessary.

Pro tip: The glaze should be thick but pourable.

Glaze the cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle with toasted almond slices.

Pro tip: For a professional finish, let the glaze set before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use fresh Medjool dates for the best flavour and texture.</li><li>Sift the flour to avoid lumps in your cake batter.</li><li>Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing for a smooth finish.</li><li>Toasting almonds before using can enhance their flavour.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

This date cake with almond glaze is best served with a cup of hot tea or coffee. It can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. You can make this cake ahead of time, as it stays moist for several days when stored in an airtight container. If you wish to freeze it, do so without the glaze and add it after thawing for the best result.