Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is a wonderfully rich and moist dessert that blends the natural sweetness of dates with the crunchy texture of walnuts, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also relatively easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for novice bakers and seasoned pastry chefs alike.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert featuring dates and walnuts as the main ingredients. The cake is characterized by its soft and moist crumb, complemented by the deep, natural sweetness of the dates and the nutty richness of the walnuts.

This recipe is inspired by traditional British baking, showcasing wholesome ingredients while offering a modern twist with Oliver’s signature style. It’s ideal for afternoon tea, a cozy dessert after dinner, or a delightful snack that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake:

• Dates: The star ingredient, dates provide the cake’s natural sweetness and moisture. Medjool dates work best due to their rich flavor and tender texture.
• Walnuts: Coarsely chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the dates.
• Butter: Unsalted butter helps create a rich, moist crumb and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Sugar: Brown sugar, typically used in this recipe, gives the cake a caramel-like sweetness and a deeper color.
• Flour: Self-raising flour is often preferred as it helps the cake rise without the need for additional leavening agents.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, providing structure and moisture to the cake.
• Baking soda: This helps the cake rise and ensures it remains light and fluffy.
• Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Milk: Used to loosen the batter and help achieve the desired consistency.
• Cinnamon: A small pinch of cinnamon can be added for a lovely, subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor.

Equipment Needed

To successfully make Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: To combine your dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric hand mixer or whisk: While you can use a hand whisk, an electric mixer can help incorporate air into the batter, making the cake lighter.
• Spatula: To fold ingredients gently and ensure even mixing.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Precision is key in baking, so make sure you have accurate measurements.
• Loaf tin or round cake pan: A loaf tin is typically used for this recipe, but a round cake pan can be substituted.
• Oven: To bake your cake at the correct temperature.
• Cooling rack: To allow the cake to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Follow these steps to bake Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (340°F) for a conventional oven, or 150°C (300°F) for a fan-assisted oven.
2. Prepare the dates: Remove the pits from the dates and chop them into small pieces. If you want the dates to break down further during baking, you can soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them up. Drain the water before using them in the recipe.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or a whisk.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Crack the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture, adding one at a time. Whisk in the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.
5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking soda, and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix well.
6. Add wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Fold the mixture together gently until just combined.
7. Stir in the dates and walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped dates and walnuts, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your greased loaf tin or cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For extra moisture: If you want an even moister cake, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter. This will give the cake a little extra sweetness and moisture.
• Chop the dates small: Be sure to chop the dates into small pieces so they don’t clump together when baking, ensuring an even distribution throughout the cake.
• Toast the walnuts: Toasting the walnuts slightly in a dry pan or oven for a few minutes will enhance their flavor and give the cake a deeper, nuttier taste.
• Check the cake early: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to check your cake a little earlier than the suggested baking time. If it’s browning too quickly on top, you can cover it with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent burning while it continues baking.
• Make it gluten-free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it contains a raising agent.

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty crunch of walnuts. It’s an easy-to-make cake that requires minimal ingredients, yet offers maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a homemade treat, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking skills and enjoy a slice of this delightful cake in no time!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is a beloved classic, with its rich flavor and moist texture. However, if you’re looking to experiment with this already delightful recipe, there are several variations you can try. Each modification adds a unique twist, making the cake a perfect choice for different occasions or taste preferences.

1. Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flaxseeds (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg). For the butter, use a plant-based butter substitute. Choose non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of regular milk to keep it fully vegan.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to provide the necessary structure. You can also experiment with almond flour for a more nutty flavor.
3. Additional Spices: Jamie’s original recipe has a mild flavor profile, but adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger can give it a cozy, spiced kick. A pinch of ground cloves or allspice will create a warm, comforting version that’s perfect for fall.
4. Orange Zest and Juice: For a citrusy burst, add the zest of one orange and a tablespoon of orange juice. The citrus aroma will pair beautifully with the dates and walnuts, balancing the sweetness with a refreshing brightness.
5. Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in some chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder. The chocolate adds richness and depth to the cake, making it even more indulgent.
6. Chopped Dried Fruits: If you want a more diverse fruit profile, consider adding chopped dried apricots, prunes, or figs along with the dates. This variation adds a chewy texture and a deeper fruitiness.
7. Nut Variations: Instead of or in addition to walnuts, try other nuts such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each nut will provide a slightly different flavor and texture to the cake.
8. Rum or Brandy: A splash of dark rum or brandy enhances the depth of flavor in the cake. It complements the dates perfectly and gives the cake a festive, rich taste that’s ideal for special occasions.
9. Topping with Caramel or Toffee Sauce: For extra indulgence, serve the cake with a drizzle of caramel or toffee sauce. The richness of the sauce pairs incredibly well with the natural sweetness of the dates.
10. Banana Date and Walnut Cake: If you enjoy a bit of banana in your cake, add mashed ripe bananas to the batter. This makes the cake even more moist and imparts a lovely tropical sweetness.

These variations will keep the base of Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake intact while giving you the flexibility to tailor it to different preferences, dietary needs, or special occasions. Try a few, or get creative with your own ideas!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from your Date and Walnut Cake properly ensures that you can enjoy it for several days without compromising its taste and texture. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Cool the Cake Completely: Always let the cake cool to room temperature before storing. If the cake is still warm, condensation can form, which might make the cake soggy and degrade its texture.
2. Airtight Container: Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge. You can also wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container for added protection.
3. Refrigeration: If you want to keep the cake for up to a week, refrigerate it. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to maintain moisture. While the cold may affect the texture slightly, it won’t ruin the flavor, and it can stay fresh for several days.
4. Freezing: If you have a large batch or want to enjoy the cake at a later time, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze slices individually or the whole cake. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours, or gently warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
5. Avoid Freezing with Icing or Toppings: If your cake has icing, caramel sauce, or other toppings, it’s best to freeze the plain cake and add the topping once you’ve defrosted it. This will prevent the topping from becoming soggy or crystallized.

By following these storage practices, your Date and Walnut Cake can last for up to a week in the fridge and even a few months in the freezer without losing its delicious flavor or texture.

What Goes Well With Date And Walnut Cake?

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary elements can elevate the experience and make it even more memorable. Here are some ideas for what goes well with it:

1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is a classic pairing. The light, creamy texture balances the dense richness of the cake and adds a bit of freshness.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve slices of the cake warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cake and cold ice cream is divine, and the vanilla flavor complements the sweetness of the dates.
3. Mascarpone or Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer a richer topping, try a mascarpone or cream cheese frosting. Its tangy, smooth flavor beautifully offsets the natural sweetness of the cake.
4. A Cup of Tea: For a cozy treat, enjoy your cake with a hot cup of tea. A strong black tea such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast complements the sweetness of the dates and walnuts, and the tannins in the tea help balance out the richness of the cake.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A warm, strong coffee or espresso can bring out the deep flavors of the walnuts and dates. The slight bitterness of coffee pairs well with the cake’s sweetness, making this a perfect combination for dessert after a meal.
6. Berries or Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries, can offer a burst of tartness that contrasts with the rich, sweet cake. Sliced pears or apples also work well, providing a fresh and slightly crisp texture.
7. Caramel Sauce or Toffee: Drizzling some warm caramel or toffee sauce over the cake enhances its sweetness and adds a luxurious element to the dish. For an added twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combination.
8. Greek Yogurt: For a tangy contrast, serve the cake with a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt. It will cut through the richness and give the cake an added creaminess.
9. Nuts: Although the cake already contains walnuts, adding extra chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans as a garnish can provide extra crunch and flavor. You can even toast them lightly to bring out their nutty aromas.

With these pairing ideas, you can enjoy Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake in different ways and elevate the flavors depending on your mood and the occasion!

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Date and Walnut Cake is a wonderfully simple yet decadent dessert that delights the senses. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with various variations, the cake offers ample opportunity for creativity and customization.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy this treat for days to come. Pairing the cake with some indulgent accompaniments, like whipped cream or a hot cup of coffee, enhances the overall experience and makes it an unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Jamie’s Date and Walnut Cake is bound to impress!.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s date and walnut cake are dates, walnuts, self-raising flour, baking soda, butter, eggs, sugar, and milk. Additionally, you may need vanilla extract, salt, and a bit of cinnamon to enhance the flavor.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Nut In Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. However, walnuts provide a unique flavor and texture that complement the dates, so any substitution might slightly change the overall taste.

How Do I Prepare The Dates For Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

To prepare the dates, remove the pits and chop them into small pieces. You can also soak the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them, especially if they are a bit dry.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking soda is gluten-free as well.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake Need To Bake?

The cake typically bakes for 40-50 minutes at 180°C (350°F), depending on your oven. It’s important to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center-if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes very well. Once fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, the cake is vegetarian as it contains no animal products other than eggs and dairy. You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.

What Is The Texture Of Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

The cake has a moist and slightly dense texture due to the dates, with a bit of crunchiness from the walnuts. It is rich and flavorful, making it a satisfying dessert or tea-time snack.

Can I Add Extra Spices To Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Absolutely!

While the recipe calls for cinnamon, you can add other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for additional warmth and depth of flavor. Start with small amounts to avoid overpowering the cake.

What Type Of Frosting Or Glaze Works Well With Jamie Oliver’s Date And Walnut Cake?

A simple cream cheese frosting or a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk pairs beautifully with this cake. For a less sweet option, you could also drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the top.