Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Name: Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 150g chopped pitted dates; 180ml hot espresso; 120g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 2 large eggs; 100g coconut sugar (or brown sugar); 80g chopped walnuts

Published: January 9, 2026

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe involves simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of espresso, dates, and walnuts creates a unique taste that is both rich and comforting.
Versatile Dessert: Serve it as a breakfast cake, an afternoon snack, or a satisfying dessert—it’s perfect for any time of day.
Healthy Ingredients: With natural sweeteners like dates and coconut sugar, this cake offers a healthier dessert option without sacrificing taste.
Impressive Presentation: The cake looks beautiful with its walnut topping, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings or celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

20cm (8-inch) round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

20cm (8-inch) round cake pan: This size ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect height for your cake.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to keep wet and dry ingredients separate until they are combined.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending ingredients thoroughly and achieving the right texture in your batter.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

150g (1 cup) chopped pitted dates
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
120g (1 cup) all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

180ml (3/4 cup) freshly brewed hot espresso
2 large eggs
100g (1/2 cup) coconut sugar or brown sugar
80ml (1/3 cup) olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nuts

80g (2/3 cup) chopped walnuts, plus extra for topping

How to Make Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare your 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dates and Espresso

In a bowl, combine the chopped dates with the freshly brewed hot espresso. Stir in the baking soda. Let this mixture sit for about 10–15 minutes so that the dates can soften.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and coconut sugar until frothy. Then add in the olive oil and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the date-espresso mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Sprinkle extra walnuts on top for added crunch and presentation.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.

Step 9: Cool

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your homemade Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts!

How to Serve Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruits

Sliced Bananas: Add a natural sweetness that complements the espresso flavor.
Berries: Fresh blueberries or strawberries provide a burst of color and tartness.

With Whipped Cream

Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the cake’s richness.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse it with vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

As Breakfast

Accompanied by Yogurt: Serve a slice alongside Greek yogurt for a balanced breakfast option.
With Coffee: Pair it with your favorite brew to enhance the coffee notes in the cake.

For Dessert Platter

Cheese Selection: Include soft cheeses like mascarpone for a delicious contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate sauce can add decadence to your dessert platter.

How to Perfect Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

To ensure your Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind.

Use Fresh Dates: Fresh dates enhance the moisture and flavor of the cake significantly.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients leads to consistent results.
Do Not Overmix Batter: Gently folding ingredients helps maintain the cake’s light texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for optimal results.

Best Side Dishes for Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Pairing side dishes with your Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts can create a delightful spread. Here are some excellent options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings freshness and brightness to the table.
Chai Tea: The spices in chai complement the flavors of coffee and dates beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess contrasts well with the moist cake and enhances indulgence.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and texture that pairs well with the cake’s softness.
Muffins or Scones: Offer a variety of baked goods to accompany your espresso date cake at brunch.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses adds sophistication and pairs nicely with coffee cakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts can be straightforward, but several common mistakes may affect the final result. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid.

Skipping the soaking step – Not letting the dates soak in espresso can lead to a dry cake. Always allow them to sit for 10–15 minutes.
Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
Using cold ingredients – Cold eggs and other ingredients can affect batter consistency. Ensure they are at room temperature before mixing.
Incorrect oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to verify that it’s accurate.
Not testing for doneness – Relying solely on baking time may lead to undercooked or overcooked cake. Always test with a toothpick for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store the cooled cake in an airtight container.
It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts

Oven – Preheat to 175°C (350°F) and reheat slices for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20–30 seconds.
Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I make this gluten-free?

You can easily make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding dark chocolate chips would enhance the flavor and create a delightful contrast with the espresso and dates.

How long does it take to bake?

The baking time is approximately 30–35 minutes, but always check for doneness with a toothpick.

What should I serve it with?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, yogurt, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

The Espresso Date Cake with Walnuts is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a dessert or even as a sweet breakfast treat. Feel free to customize it by adding different nuts or spices according to your taste preferences. Try making this delightful cake today!

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