Mary Berry Date And Walnut Cake

Delve into the delightful world of Mary Berry's Date and Walnut Cake, a classic British bake that promises to enchant with its moist texture and rich flavors. This recipe combines the sweet, chewy depth of dates with the crunchy, nutty goodness of walnuts, creating a loaf that's both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for afternoon tea, this cake is a testament to Mary Berry's skill in creating bakes that feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients for the Date and Walnut Cake:

• Butter: 90g, plus extra for greasing
• Dates: 250g, pitted and roughly chopped
• Boiling Water: 150ml, to soften the dates
• Caster Sugar: 90g, for a sweet balance
• Egg: 1, as a binding agent
• Self-Raising Flour: 250g, for a light and airy cake
• Baking Powder: 1 tsp, to ensure the cake rises perfectly
• Walnuts: 90g, roughly chopped for texture

Preparation Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tin: Start by greasing and lining a 2lb loaf tin. Preheat your oven to the ideal baking temperature.
2. Soak the Dates: Place the dates in a bowl, pour boiling water over them, and let them sit. This process softens the dates, infusing moisture into the cake.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the butter, sugar, egg, flour, and baking powder, and beat until well blended. Incorporate the walnuts and softened dates, including the soaking liquid.
4. Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared tin and bake until the cake is well-risen and golden. The exact time may vary, so it's advisable to test doneness with a skewer.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the tin before turning it out onto a wire rack. Enjoy it sliced, perhaps with a spread of butter.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To keep the cake fresh, wrap it in aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cake by wrapping it securely and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information:

Each serving is packed with the energy and nutrients from the dates and walnuts, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and dietary fiber. Specifically, expect a notable amount of calories, carbs from the dates, and healthy fats from the walnuts.

FAQ about the Date and Walnut Cake:

• Can I use different nuts? Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or any nuts of your preference.
• Is it possible to make this cake vegan? Absolutely. Swap the butter for a vegan spread, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and choose a plant-based milk for any adjustments.

Mary Berry's Date and Walnut Cake is not just a treat; it's a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet note after dinner, this cake is sure to impress.

For more detailed instructions and additional recipes, visiting dedicated cooking and recipe websites is recommended​​​​​​.