Classic Queen Elizabeth Cake Recipe

Name: Classic Queen Elizabeth Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates (chopped); 1 cup boiling water; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg (large); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup cream (heavy or whipping); 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

70 min 12 slices Medium

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Indulge in this Canadian date cake topped with a luscious broiled coconut-brown-sugar-cream topping.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Queen Elizabeth Cake is a classic Canadian dessert that has charmed taste buds with its rich, moist texture and a decadent topping. This cake is believed to have first gained popularity during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and has since remained a beloved treat across Canada. The cake's base is made from dates, which are soaked in boiling water with baking soda to soften them and meld them into the batter, creating a dense and flavourful cake. What truly sets this cake apart is the broiled topping made of coconut, brown sugar, and cream, adding a caramelized layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the date-infused cake.

Instructions

Prepare the date mixture

In a small bowl, combine chopped dates and baking soda. Pour boiling water over the mixture and let it sit for 15 minutes to soften.

Pro tip: This helps break down the dates and integrate them smoothly into the batter.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 23 cm (9-inch) square baking pan.

Mix the cake batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.

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

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined.

Pro tip: Do not overmix to maintain a tender crumb.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Prepare the topping

While the cake is baking, combine butter, brown sugar, and cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut.

Broil the topping

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the coconut topping evenly over the hot cake. Return the cake to the oven and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Pro tip: The topping should be golden brown; watch carefully as it can burn quickly.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: Cooling helps the topping set properly.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your dates are fresh to enhance the cake's moisture and sweetness.
Use unsweetened coconut for a balanced topping.
Watch the topping closely while broiling to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make Queen Elizabeth Cake?

Queen Elizabeth Cake is made with a date-infused batter topped with a broiled coconut, brown sugar, and cream mixture.

What is the topping on Queen Elizabeth Cake?

The topping is made from butter, brown sugar, cream, and shredded coconut, broiled for a caramelized finish.

How long do you broil the coconut topping?

Broil the topping for 2-3 minutes, watching constantly to avoid burning.

Why soak dates in baking soda and boiling water?

Soaking dates in boiling water with baking soda softens them, enhancing the cake's texture and flavour.

Can Queen Elizabeth Cake be made ahead?

Yes, it can be made a day ahead. Store at room temperature or refrigerate, and add the topping before serving if frozen.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Queen Elizabeth Cake warm or at room temperature to enjoy its full flavour profile. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings or dessert. This cake can be made a day ahead to allow the flavours to meld even further. Store it covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. The cake can also be frozen without the topping for up to a month. Simply thaw and add the topping before serving.

Nutrition per serving

330

Calories

Protein

17g

Fat

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