Description
Moist, flavorful, and deeply aromatic, this Date Coffee Cake with Walnuts and Espresso Glaze is everything you love in a cozy, café-style treat. Sweet dates add natural richness, walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, and the bold espresso glaze ties it all together for the perfect morning or afternoon bite. Whether served at brunch, with tea, or as a not-too-sweet dessert, this cake is bound to become a go-to favorite.
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1 cup chopped pitted dates
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1 cup boiling water
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup light brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp salt
For the Walnut Topping:
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¾ cup chopped walnuts
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¼ cup light brown sugar
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Espresso Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1½ tbsp brewed espresso (cooled)
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tsp milk (optional, for thinning)
Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Dates
In a bowl, combine chopped dates and boiling water.
Stir in baking soda and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
This softens the dates and creates a rich, sweet base for the cake.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in two additions, alternating with the date mixture.
Stir just until combined.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Espresso Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, cooled espresso, and vanilla.
If needed, add milk a few drops at a time until the glaze reaches a drizzle consistency.
Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the glaze set for 5–10 minutes.
Slice and serve with your favorite hot drink or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Notes
Soak the Dates – This step ensures the dates melt into the batter for maximum moistness.
Don’t Overmix – Mix gently for a tender, soft crumb.
Toast the Walnuts – For deeper flavor, toast them lightly before using.
Use Real Espresso – Freshly brewed espresso gives the glaze bold flavor.
Cool Before Glazing – A cool cake ensures the glaze sits perfectly on top.