Mary Berry Date And Walnut Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of classic, comforting desserts, then Mary Berry’s date and walnut cake is a must-try!

This recipe combines the rich sweetness of dates with the crunchy texture of walnuts, all wrapped up in a moist, flavorful cake. Mary Berry’s approach to baking is renowned for being foolproof, so even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, you can expect perfect results. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a delicious treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this cake is guaranteed to impress everyone. Plus, the warmth of the walnuts and the natural sweetness of the dates make it the perfect cozy dessert for any time of the year.

Mary Berry Date And Walnut Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that are simple yet rich in flavor, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Dates (Medjool or Deglet Noor) – Dates are the star of this cake, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Medjool dates are often favored for their larger size and soft, caramel-like taste, but Deglet Noor dates can also work well if you’re looking for a firmer texture.

2. Walnuts – These provide a lovely crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that complements the rich dates. Chopped walnuts work best, giving the cake both texture and a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness of the dates.

3. Self-raising Flour – This flour is essential for giving the cake its light, fluffy texture. Self-raising flour has a built-in leavening agent, meaning you don’t need to add baking powder separately.

4. Butter – Adding butter ensures the cake remains moist, rich, and tender. It also contributes to the overall flavor profile, enriching the cake with a subtle, creamy richness.

5. Caster Sugar – Caster sugar dissolves easily, creating a smooth batter without any granules. It adds a refined sweetness to the cake without being overpowering.

6. Eggs – Eggs help bind the ingredients together, providing structure and stability while also contributing to the cake’s richness.

7. Baking Powder – Although self-raising flour contains a leavening agent, a small additional amount of baking powder can give the cake a little extra rise, making it fluffier.

8. Milk – The milk helps to thin the batter and gives the cake its soft crumb texture. Full-fat milk adds creaminess, but you could substitute with a non-dairy alternative if preferred.

9. Vanilla Extract – A dash of vanilla extract brings out the sweetness of the dates and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

10. Lemon Juice or Zest – A hint of citrus acidity from lemon juice or zest helps balance the sweetness of the dates and adds a refreshing note to the cake.

Equipment Needed

Before diving into the cake-making process, it’s helpful to gather the following equipment:

1. Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a couple of large mixing bowls to combine your wet and dry ingredients. Make sure they are spacious enough to handle the mixing without overflowing.

2. Electric Mixer or Whisk – For ease and consistency, an electric hand mixer is the ideal tool to beat the butter and sugar together, ensuring they reach a light and fluffy texture. Alternatively, a hand whisk will do the job with a bit more elbow grease.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision is key in baking, so make sure you have a set of measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure your ingredients, especially when it comes to sugar, flour, and liquids.

4. Spatula or Wooden Spoon – You’ll need this for folding the ingredients together. A spatula works best for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure no batter is left behind.

5. Baking Tin (8-inch round or loaf pan) – Choose a well-greased 8-inch round or loaf tin to bake the cake. This will allow the cake to rise evenly and maintain its shape.

6. Oven – A preheated oven is essential for baking the cake to perfection. The oven temperature should be set to around 160°C (325°F) for a gentle, even bake.

7. Cooling Rack – Once the cake is baked, a cooling rack is crucial for letting the cake cool evenly, preventing it from becoming soggy.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake

Making Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake is a straightforward yet satisfying process that yields a moist, flavorful cake. Follow these steps for success:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin

   Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (325°F). Grease your cake tin with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once baked.

2. Prepare the Dates

   Remove the stones from the dates and chop them into small pieces. Place them in a small saucepan, add a bit of water, and heat them gently until softened.

   This step helps the dates break down and blend more easily into the batter, creating a smooth consistency. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the batter, which will help the cake rise.

   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice or zest for extra flavor.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

   In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together. This ensures the dry ingredients are well-distributed and prevents any lumps in the batter.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

   Gradually fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Add the milk as you go, mixing until everything is fully incorporated and you have a smooth batter.

6. Add the Dates and Walnuts

   Once the batter is smooth, fold in the softened dates and chopped walnuts. Be gentle during this step to avoid deflating the batter. You want to evenly distribute the dates and walnuts throughout the batter.

7. Bake the Cake

   Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of the cake-it should come out clean when the cake is fully cooked.

8. Cool the Cake

   Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips

1. Soak the Dates for Extra Moisture

   To ensure your cake is extra moist, consider soaking the chopped dates in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes before using them. This step helps soften the dates further and adds even more moisture to the cake.

2. Toast the Walnuts

   To intensify the nutty flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter. You can do this by placing them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Room Temperature Ingredients

   For the best results, make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing them. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle and result in a dense, uneven texture.

4. Check the Cake with a Toothpick

   As every oven can be different, check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If there’s still batter clinging to it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

5. Storage

   If you have any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months for an easy treat anytime.

Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake is a timeless recipe that combines simple ingredients with expert technique to create a deliciously moist, rich, and flavorful cake. With its perfect balance of sweetness from the dates, nuttiness from the walnuts, and a hint of citrus freshness, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a tea party, or just a cozy afternoon at home, this cake is sure to impress. Following the expert tips and taking care to prepare the ingredients properly will ensure a perfect result every time. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee, and let the natural sweetness and depth of flavor transport you to a world of baking bliss.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake

Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake is already a timeless classic, a rich and moist creation that is perfect for any occasion. But if you’re looking to add a little flair or make it your own, there are plenty of easy recipe variations you can try, all while keeping the essence of the cake intact.

1. Adding Spices: To elevate the flavor, consider adding a mix of warm spices. A teaspoon of cinnamon or ground ginger can complement the natural sweetness of the dates and the nutty flavor of the walnuts. If you want a deeper, more aromatic profile, a pinch of nutmeg or cloves could also work wonders.

2. Substitute Walnuts with Other Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, or if you’re just looking for a different texture, you can easily swap them with other nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds. Each nut brings its own unique flavor. For example, hazelnuts provide a subtle, earthy richness, while pecans add a buttery smoothness to the cake.

3. Use Dried Fruit Variations: Dates are the star of this cake, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with other dried fruits. Adding chopped dried apricots, prunes, or figs could create a delightful twist. The sweet, tart contrast of figs or apricots against the richness of the walnuts offers an exciting flavor profile that’s sure to surprise.

4. Incorporate Zest for Freshness: A small amount of citrus zest can lift the cake’s flavors, making it feel lighter and more vibrant. Try a bit of orange or lemon zest mixed into the batter. The citrusy zing works beautifully with the deep sweetness of the dates and the earthiness of the walnuts.

5. Make It Vegan: While Mary Berry’s recipe is traditionally made with eggs and butter, it’s surprisingly simple to make a vegan-friendly version. Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and replace the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, left to set). The result is a moist and delicious vegan cake that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

6. Try a Drizzle or Frosting: While the cake is wonderful as it is, you can add an extra layer of decadence by topping it with a simple glaze. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the natural sweetness of the dates. Alternatively, a cream cheese frosting with a hint of vanilla or orange could take the cake to a more indulgent level, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions.

7. Incorporate a Bit of Coffee: Coffee pairs wonderfully with both dates and walnuts, so why not add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter?

   The coffee will enrich the flavor profile, deepening the sweetness and offering a hint of warmth and bitterness that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

8. Gluten-Free Version: For those who are gluten intolerant, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Some people also swear by using almond flour, which adds a nutty flavor and makes the cake even denser. Just be sure to check that the other ingredients (like baking powder) are gluten-free.

These small adjustments and additions can transform Mary Berry’s classic into something uniquely your own while keeping the cake’s beloved texture and moistness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover slices of Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake (although it’s hard to imagine that happening!), it’s essential to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Fortunately, this cake is quite forgiving when it comes to storage.

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the leftover cake within 2-3 days, storing it at room temperature is perfectly fine. Simply place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help preserve the moisture and prevent the cake from drying out. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

2. Refrigeration for Longer Freshness: For extended storage, it’s best to refrigerate the cake. Wrap it in cling film or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. This helps the cake maintain its moisture for up to a week. If the cake was frosted, make sure to store it in a way that doesn’t smudge the icing or frosting.

3. Freezing the Cake: If you want to keep the cake for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. You can also freeze the entire cake in one piece if you prefer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let the cake thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Freezing preserves the flavor, texture, and moisture, making it as delicious as when it was first baked.

4. Keep the Walnuts Crunchy: Walnuts can lose their crunchiness over time, especially when stored in humid or warm environments. If you want to preserve their crispness, you could store them separately in a small container and sprinkle them on the cake just before serving.

5. Check for Moisture Loss: If you find that the cake has dried out slightly after being stored, don’t worry!

   You can refresh it by warming it up in the microwave for a few seconds or gently in the oven wrapped in foil. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving can also bring some added moisture back to the cake.

What Goes Well With Date And Walnut Cake

Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake is already a beautiful balance of sweetness, richness, and texture, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your enjoyment of this dessert. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavors or simply add a touch of indulgence, here are a few ideas for perfect pairings:

1. Fresh Cream or Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh cream or softly whipped cream complements the dense, moist texture of the cake. The cream adds a touch of lightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the dates and walnuts.

2. Custard: Another classic pairing for any traditional cake is custard. A smooth, velvety vanilla custard works wonderfully with the dense, moist texture of Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake. The custard’s creaminess balances the sweetness of the dates and the earthiness of the walnuts.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, sweet creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a fantastic contrast against the warm, spiced flavors of the cake. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy hot-and-cold dessert combinations.

4. Coffee or Tea: Date and walnut cake pairs beautifully with both coffee and tea, particularly if you enjoy your beverage on the stronger side. A cup of freshly brewed black coffee or a fragrant cup of Earl Grey tea is a delightful companion. The bitterness of the coffee or the floral notes in the tea provide the perfect balance to the cake’s sweetness.

5. Fruit Compote: For a refreshing twist, serve your cake with a fruit compote. A mix of berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries, with a touch of sugar or lemon juice can add a burst of tartness that balances the richness of the cake.

6. Cheese: Though it may sound unconventional, pairing a slice of Date and Walnut Cake with a wedge of sharp cheese, like aged cheddar or blue cheese, can offer an unexpected contrast in flavor. The sharpness of the cheese cuts through the cake’s sweetness, creating a complex and satisfying bite.

7. Honey or Maple Syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can elevate the cake even further. These natural sweeteners add a layer of complexity and richness that complements the flavors of the dates and walnuts.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake is the epitome of a comforting, flavorful dessert that never goes out of style. With its perfect blend of moistness, richness, and texture, it’s a cake that is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations like adding spices, substituting the walnuts, or making it vegan, you’re sure to end up with a cake that delights the senses.

Proper storage of leftovers ensures the cake remains fresh and moist, so you can enjoy it for days. Pairing it with a dollop of cream, a cup of coffee, or even a fruit compote enhances its rich flavors, making every bite a truly satisfying experience.

So next time you bake this classic cake, remember that it’s not just the cake itself but the possibilities for pairing, variations, and storing that make it a dessert that’s ready for any occasion.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

The key ingredients for Mary Berry’s Date and Walnut Cake include dates, walnuts, self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful cake with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Nuts Instead Of Walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, as walnuts contribute a distinct earthy taste that complements the sweetness of the dates.

How Do I Prepare The Dates For Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

To prepare the dates, chop them into small pieces. Mary Berry recommends pitting and chopping the dates before adding them to the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cake. You can also soak the chopped dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them before mixing.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by swapping the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Additionally, make sure all other ingredients, including the baking powder, are gluten-free.

How Can I Make The Cake More Moist?

To make the cake more moist, consider adding a bit more butter or an extra egg to the recipe. Additionally, soaking the dates in hot water before incorporating them into the batter can help retain moisture in the cake.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

It can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours.

What Type Of Cake Tin Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Mary Berry recommends using an 8-inch round cake tin or an equivalent-sized tin. It’s important to grease and line the tin to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking. You can also use parchment paper to line the tin.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

The cake should be baked for around 50-60 minutes at 160°C (140°C fan) or 325°F (fan 300°F). However, baking times may vary depending on your oven, so it’s best to check the cake by inserting a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I Add Other Fruits To Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Yes, you can add other fruits like dried apricots or raisins to the cake for additional flavor and texture. Just ensure the fruit is chopped into small pieces to distribute evenly throughout the batter.

How Do I Store Mary Berry’s Date And Walnut Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can also store it in the fridge to extend its shelf life, but make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.