Description

This Warm Spiced Date, Walnut & Honey Middle Eastern Celebration Cake is rich, moist, and naturally sweetened with dates and honey. Infused with cinnamon and cardamom, and finished with a delicate honey glaze, it’s the perfect festive cake for gatherings, holidays, and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups chopped pitted dates

1 cup boiling water

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup chopped walnuts

FOR THE HONEY GLAZE:

1/4 cup warm honey

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
Place chopped dates in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them and stir in baking soda. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Fold the softened date mixture into the batter.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Fold in chopped walnuts gently.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow cake to cool for 15 minutes in the pan before transferring to a rack.
Mix warm honey and lemon juice together and brush over the warm cake for a glossy finish.
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not skip soaking the dates; it ensures moisture and rich texture.

Toast walnuts lightly before adding for deeper flavor.

The cake tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.

Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 360
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg