Easy Jamie Oliver Date And Walnut Cake Recipe: Sweet Perfection

Jamie Oliver’s date and walnut cake represents a cherished British teatime tradition that transforms simple ingredients into something magical.

Rustic and comforting, this cake brings warmth to any kitchen with its rich, nutty aroma.

Sweet chopped dates mingle perfectly with crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful textural contrast.

Brown sugar adds deep caramel notes that elevate the entire dessert experience.

Home bakers appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together, requiring minimal preparation and maximum flavor.

Sophisticated yet unpretentious, the cake speaks to those who love classic, unfussy baking.

You’ll find this recipe becomes an instant favorite for weekend gatherings and quiet moments: get ready to bake something extraordinary.

How to Store Jamie Oliver’s Cake

• Refrigerator Method: Seal the cake in an airtight, moisture-tight container after wrapping it completely in plastic wrap. This technique locks in freshness and prevents flavor absorption from other foods, keeping your cake's delicate taste pristine for up to 7 days.
• Freezer Method: Slice the cake into individual portions before freezing to make future enjoyment easier. Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen slices maintain excellent quality for 2-3 months and can be thawed at room temperature for quick, delicious treats.
• Counter Method: Keep the cake in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight in a sealed container. Room temperature storage works perfectly for 3-4 days, allowing the date and walnut flavors to remain rich and moist.

Alternate Takes on Date & Walnut Cake

• Citrus Zest Splash: Add orange or lemon zest to the date mixture for a bright, fresh flavor that complements the rich, nutty walnuts. The citrus will create a subtle tangy undertone that lifts the cake's deep sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle Delight: After cooling, top the cake with a smooth dark chocolate ganache or melted chocolate. Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Spiced Warmth Edition: Mix in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the dry ingredients for a warming, aromatic version of the classic cake. These spices will enhance the natural sweetness of the dates and create a cozy, comforting flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Replace regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake accessible for those with wheat sensitivities. The texture might be slightly different but will still maintain the cake's rich, moist characteristics.

Looking Back at Jamie Oliver Date & Walnut Cake

Jamie Oliver’s date and walnut cake whispers comfort through classic British baking traditions.

Rich ingredients mingle with nostalgic flavors, creating a sensory experience beyond simple dessert preparation.

Nutty walnuts provide delightful crunch against smooth date landscapes, making each slice memorable.

Hearty textures promise warmth and connection with each carefully crafted bite.

Family kitchens will welcome this straightforward recipe that celebrates simple, quality ingredients.

Passionate bakers: share this culinary gem, comment with your baking adventures, and spread delicious inspiration across social networks – your engagement keeps sweet traditions alive!

Why Jamie Oliver’s Date & Walnut Cake Puts a Twist on Tradition

• Indulge in Natural Sweetness: The dates provide a rich, caramel-like sweetness without relying on refined sugar, making this cake a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.
• Texture Treasure Trove: Crushed walnuts create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist cake, giving each bite a perfect balance of smooth and crispy textures.
• Effortless Baking Magic: This recipe requires minimal technical skills and basic ingredients, making it an ideal choice for beginner bakers who want to create something impressive without complicated techniques.

Must-Have Items for Jamie’s Date & Walnut Cake

• Dates: Sweet, chewy fruit that provides natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• Margarine: Adds richness and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Hot Water: Softens the dates and helps blend ingredients smoothly.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and creates a lighter texture.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and provides structure to the cake.

• Flour: Basic cake ingredient that forms the cake's structure.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
• Walnuts: Brings nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the cake.

• Parchment Paper: Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal.
• Loaf Pan: Gives the cake its classic rectangular shape.

How to Bake This Date & Nut Cake

Step 1: Prepare Date Mixture

• Chopped dates
• Margarine
• Hot water
• Baking soda

Stir until margarine melts and dates soften. Let the mixture cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 2: Ready The Oven

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

• 1 all-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Chopped walnuts

Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Cake Components

Add flour mixture to cooled date mixture. Gently fold ingredients together. Crack 1 large egg and beat it into the batter until smooth and evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer cake batter into prepared loaf pan. Slide pan into preheated oven. Bake for 60-75 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into center – if it comes out clean, cake is ready. Allow cake to cool completely before slicing.

Chef’s Hints for a Flavorful Loaf

• Prevent Sinking Nuts: Toss chopped walnuts in a little flour before adding to the batter to help them stay suspended during baking.
• Low and Slow Baking: Use the recommended low oven temperature to ensure even baking and prevent the cake from burning or drying out.
• Toast Walnuts for Extra Flavor: Lightly toast walnuts in a dry pan before adding to the batter to enhance their nutty, rich flavor profile.
• Storage Secret: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 5 days at room temperature.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and margarine to reach room temperature before mixing to help ingredients blend more seamlessly.

Jamie Oliver Date And Walnut Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Jamie Oliver’s date and walnut cake delivers a rich, comforting British dessert packed with Mediterranean flavors. Moist crumbs studded with sweet dates and crunchy walnuts create a perfectly balanced slice that promises warmth and nostalgia in each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) self-rising flour
• 6 ounces (170 grams) brown sugar
• 4 ounces (113 grams) chopped dates (pitted)

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) boiling water
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 ounces (57 grams) margarine

Flavoring and Leavening Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) baking soda
• 2 ounces (57 grams) chopped walnuts

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dates by combining chopped dates, margarine, boiling water (212°F/100°C), and baking soda in a mixing bowl. Stir until margarine completely dissolves and dates soften, creating a smooth mixture. Allow the mixture to rest and cool for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature.
2. Adjust the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Line a standard 9-inch × 5-inch (23 cm × 13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage to prevent cake from adhering to the sides.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, thoroughly combine all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and roughly chopped walnuts. Gently mix the dry ingredients until evenly distributed.
4. Gradually fold the flour and walnut mixture into the cooled date mixture, stirring carefully to create a uniform batter. Incorporate the lightly beaten egg, mixing until the ingredients are completely integrated and no dry spots remain.
5. Transfer the complete batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, monitoring the cake’s progress. Test for doneness by inserting a clean toothpick into the center; if it emerges without wet batter, the cake is fully baked. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Elevate your baking experience with this date and walnut cake, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious treat.
• Letting the cake rest overnight intensifies its complex flavor profile, creating a more sophisticated dessert.
• Carefully selected ingredients like brown sugar and soaked dates ensure maximum moisture and depth.
• Room temperature storage maintains the cake’s incredible softness and rich caramel undertones.
• Pairing with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream takes this rustic dessert to gourmet heights.
• Slow baking allows each ingredient to develop its unique character, resulting in a harmonious culinary masterpiece.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Uk

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 246 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 228 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 37 mg