Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and caraway seeds.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the date mixture, until everything is well combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 344
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 68mg
Sodium: 319mg
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 34g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of dried fruit instead of dates, such as raisins or apricots.
- If you don't have caraway seeds, you can use fennel seeds or anise seeds instead.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra crunch.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake for added sweetness.
- Serve the cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the dates into small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
- Don't overmix the batter, or the cake may become tough.
- To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, make sure to grease the pan well and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cake, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and serve it on a cake stand.
- Cut the cake into slices and arrange them on a platter for a buffet-style presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruit over the top of the cake.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pairings:
- Serve the cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Pair it with a glass of sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato or Port.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the cake with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries.
- Pair it with a side of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for added creaminess.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the cake is too moist, try reducing the amount of liquid in the recipe or increasing the baking time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Caraway seeds have been used in baking for centuries and are a popular ingredient in German and Scandinavian cuisine.
- Dates are a staple food in the Middle East and have been cultivated for thousands of years.
Flavor profiles:
- This cake has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor from the dates and caraway seeds.
- The texture is moist and tender, with a delicate crumb.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
- It's also a great addition to a brunch or breakfast spread.
Related Categories
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Region: Middle Eastern
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spiced, Caramelized, Aromatic