Irresistibly Moist Date and Walnut Traybake Cake (with Creamy Icing)

Oh, I’m so glad you stopped by today! You’re in for a real treat because I’m sharing one of my all-time favorite comfort bakes: a Date and Walnut Traybake Cake. Sweet, sticky dates meet crunchy walnuts in a soft, buttery sponge, topped with the silkiest vanilla icing. It’s the kind of cake that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with nostalgia.

This is the cake I remember my nonna serving with tea on chilly afternoons—it never lasted more than a day! Whether you’re making it for teatime, potlucks, or as a cozy snack, this traybake has a way of bringing people together.

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Overview of Recipe Content

This Date and Walnut Traybake Cake is:

• Perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or a sweet snack.
• A balance of sticky, sweet dates with earthy walnut crunch.
• Comforting and moist, with a luscious creamy icing.
• Easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Flavor Profile

The sponge is moist and slightly caramel-like thanks to the dates. Walnuts bring that rustic nutty crunch, while the vanilla icing gives a smooth, sweet finish.

Health Notes

Dates bring natural sweetness and fiber, while walnuts add heart-healthy fats and protein. Of course, it’s still a treat, but one that feels wholesome and satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

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• 🍯 Dates: 200g, pitted and chopped
• 🌰 Walnuts: 100g, chopped
• 🧈 Butter: 100g, softened
• 🍚 Caster sugar: 100g
• 🥄 Baking powder: 1 tsp
• 🥚 Large eggs: 2
• 🌾 Plain flour: 150g
• 🥛 Milk: 100ml
• 🍬 Icing sugar: 200g
• 🧴 Vanilla extract: 1 tsp

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or whisk
• Baking tray (8×10 inch recommended)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Suggested Substitutions

• Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
• Make it dairy-free with vegan butter and plant-based milk.
• Use light brown sugar instead of caster sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.

How to Make Date and Walnut Traybake Cake

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1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line your baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. This step gives your sponge that light texture!
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
4. Sift in flour and baking powder, folding gently to combine.
5. Stir in chopped dates and walnuts, followed by the milk to loosen the batter.
6. Pour into tray, spreading evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and springy.
7. Cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Make the icing: Mix icing sugar with vanilla extract and just enough milk for a smooth, spreadable icing.
9. Spread icing on cooled cake and sprinkle extra chopped walnuts for garnish.

What to Serve with Date and Walnut Traybake Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with:

• A hot cup of English Breakfast tea or a latte.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples for balance.

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Soak chopped dates in hot water for 10 minutes before using for extra softness.
• Toast walnuts lightly before adding to enhance flavor.
• Don’t overbake—the sponge should be golden and springy, not dry.
• For neat slices, chill the iced traybake before cutting.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freeze (without icing) for up to 3 months. Defrost fully before icing and serving.

General Information

Traybakes became popular in British home baking because they’re easy, shareable, and versatile. This date and walnut version is a cozy nod to old-fashioned teatime treats that never go out of style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake without icing?
Yes! It’s delicious plain, dusted with icing sugar, or served with a dollop of cream.

Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour and baking powder?
Yes, simply swap them directly and skip the baking powder.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—use a good gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add spices?
Absolutely! Cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the dates beautifully.

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Conclusion

There you have it—an irresistibly moist Date and Walnut Traybake Cake that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s simple enough for a weekday bake but special enough for a celebration.

If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy these:

• Moist Banana Bread
• Carrot Walnut Cake
• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Easy Apple Crumble
• Chocolate Fudge Brownies

Interactive Elements

I’d love to see your version! Leave a review in the comments, or share a picture on Pinterest at Poulef Recipes and tag me!

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Nutritional Information (per slice, 12 servings)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Sugar	Fat	Sat. Fat	Fiber	Sodium
270	4g	35g	20g	12g	5g	2g	80mg

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