Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts and Rich Espresso Glaze

This Date Coffee Loaf Cake combines the deep flavors of dates and coffee, creating a moist, aromatic treat. Topped with a rich espresso glaze and sprinkled with walnuts for a bit of crunch, this cake is the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. It’s a delightful dessert or snack, ideal for coffee lovers and anyone craving a comforting, homemade baked good.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, brewed coffee, and baking soda. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the dates to soften.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the date mixture. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare the espresso glaze by mixing espresso and powdered sugar together until smooth.
7. Once the cake has baked, let it cool slightly before drizzling the espresso glaze over the top.
8. Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

1. Add Chocolate: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
2. Different Nuts: You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
3. Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced twist.
4. Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based butter to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
5. Lighter Glaze: For a lighter version, substitute the espresso glaze with a simple powdered sugar glaze, or skip the glaze entirely for a less sweet option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if you prefer a slightly firmer texture. To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe? Yes, you can use decaf coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free version of the cake.
2. Can I use other dried fruits instead of dates? While dates give this cake its unique flavor and texture, you can substitute with raisins, dried apricots, or figs for a similar result.
3. Can I make this cake without walnuts? Yes, if you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips for a different twist.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, the cake can be made a day or two in advance. It stays fresh when stored properly and often tastes even better as it sits.
5. How can I make this cake more moist? Ensure that the dates are softened well in the coffee, as this contributes to the cake’s moisture. Also, don’t overbake the cake, as this can dry it out.
6. Can I skip the espresso glaze? Yes, the glaze is optional. You can serve the cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar if you prefer.
7. Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee? Yes, you can use instant coffee dissolved in water as a substitute for brewed coffee.
8. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and thaw it before serving.
9. What kind of coffee should I use? Use strong, brewed coffee for the best flavor. A medium to dark roast will give the cake a rich coffee flavor.
10. Can I add more sugar to the cake? The amount of sugar in the recipe provides a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust it slightly to your taste if you prefer a sweeter cake.

Conclusion

The Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is a deliciously rich dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the deep flavor of coffee. The addition of walnuts gives it texture, while the espresso glaze adds a decadent finish. This cake is perfect for coffee lovers or anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful homemade treat. It’s easy to make, and its unique flavor combination is sure to impress.

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