Easy Moist Date Cake with Warm Fall Spices & Pecans is a soft, flavorful dessert that captures the cozy flavors of autumn. Sweet dates, aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and crunchy pecans make every bite comforting and indulgent. This cake is perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a slice of moist, spiced goodness.
Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
2. Ingredients
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1 cup chopped pitted dates
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1 cup boiling water
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ cup chopped pecans, plus extra for topping
3. Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Add Dates and Pecans
Stir in the softened dates along with their soaking liquid and the chopped pecans. Mix until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle a few extra pecans on top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
4. Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 28g
Fiber: 3g
5. Tips
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Make sure to soak the dates in boiling water; it keeps the cake moist.
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Feel free to add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a deeper spice flavor.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
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Toast the pecans lightly before adding for an extra nutty aroma.
