When it comes to cozying up at home with a delightful treat that warms not just your taste buds, but your heart too, few things beat a homemade cake. This Orange Date Cake recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that come together harmoniously in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests, treat your family, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to brighten any occasion.
### Orange Date Cake
#### Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over them and let it sit for about 10 minutes to soften the dates.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the orange zest and the softened dates along with the soaking water. Mix until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cake has cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish, if desired.
Enjoy a slice of this Orange Date Cake with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The citrusy zest of the orange is beautifully complemented by the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Bake up this simple yet impressive cake to add a touch of warmth and sweetness to your day.
