Indulging in the rich flavors of Nigella Lawson’s Date and Nut Cake with Black Coffee is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting hug. This cake is perfect for cozy afternoons when you crave something sweet with your coffee or as a delightful dessert to impress guests. The combination of sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and a hint of coffee makes this cake not just a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful experience to bake. I’ve made this cake countless times, and it never fails to bring smiles and warmth to the table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Date and Nut Cake is a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire for several reasons. It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also relies on budget-friendly pantry staples. If you’re looking for a cake that’s perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a casual family brunch or a festive holiday gathering — this one fits the bill beautifully.
The moistness of the cake ensures it’s kid-approved, while the sophisticated flavor profile appeals to adults too. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a strong cup of black coffee, making every slice a moment of indulgence.
"This cake was an absolute hit! The dates add such a lovely sweetness, and the nuts give it great texture. I served it with coffee, and everyone raved about it!" — A satisfied baker
Preparing Nigella’s Date and Nut Cake with Black Coffee
Making this cake comes together quite smoothly, which is great if you’re juggling multiple tasks in the kitchen. You’ll start by prepping your dates, allowing them to soak in boiling water with the baking soda. This step helps to soften the dates, infusing the cake with rich sweetness as you blend it all together. The process follows with creaming butter and sugar, then gradually mixing in eggs and vanilla, which leads to a beautifully fluffy batter. You’ll fold in the soaked dates and nuts, pour the mixture into a greased tin, and let the oven work its magic.
What you’ll need
To create this delectable Date and Nut Cake, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:
- 300g pitted dates, chopped
- 250ml boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 180g brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200g self-raising flour
- 100g chopped walnuts
- 100g chopped pecans
- Black coffee, for serving
Feel free to swap out the nuts depending on your preference, or try using another type of natural sweetener if you’d like a different flavor profile.
