This Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze is a must-try dessert that perfectly combines the rich sweetness of dates with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges. The moist texture of the cake pairs wonderfully with the smooth orange glaze, making it a delightful addition to any gathering, from cozy afternoon teas to festive celebrations. Its unique flavor profile and simple preparation make it a standout treat that will impress your guests and become a beloved recipe in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet dates and tangy orange creates a taste experience that is both refreshing and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this cake can be made quickly, even by novice bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for various occasions like brunches, birthdays, or just an afternoon snack.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the dates, this loaf cake stays moist longer than traditional cakes.
• Citrusy Glaze Finish: The orange glaze elevates the cake’s flavor, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: This is crucial for shaping the cake while it bakes evenly to achieve that perfect loaf structure.
• Mixing bowls: Having different sizes allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients effectively, ensuring a well-mixed batter.
• Electric mixer: While optional, it helps in creaming butter and sugar quickly, saving time and effort in the preparation process.

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 ½ cups (225g) pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup (250ml) boiling water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) fresh orange juice

For the Orange Glaze

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

How to Make Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

In a bowl, place the chopped dates. Pour boiling water over them and stir in baking soda. Let them sit for about 10 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while alternating with fresh orange juice until everything is just combined.

Step 6: Stir in Dates

Gently fold in the softened dates along with any remaining liquid from soaking them.

Step 7: Bake the Loaf

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Allow your loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Drizzle over your cooled loaf once it has cooled down entirely.

Step 10: Serve

Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before slicing your delicious Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze. Enjoy!

How to Serve Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

Serving your Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze can enhance its flavors and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Citrus Slices: Serve slices of fresh oranges or grapefruits alongside the cake for a refreshing contrast.
• Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a vibrant touch and complements the cake’s sweetness.

Enjoy with Creamy Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add lightness and richness to each slice.
• Yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Infuse with Beverages

• Herbal Tea: A cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs nicely with this loaf cake, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Coffee: Brewed coffee provides a rich backdrop, making it an excellent choice for brunch or afternoon tea.

How to Perfect Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

Perfecting your Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality butter will give your cake a richer flavor and better texture.
• Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure flour and sugar precisely for consistent results; too much flour can lead to a dry loaf.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to maintain moisture; overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking; use a toothpick inserted in the center as a guide.

Best Side Dishes for Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Date and Orange Loaf Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Greek Salad: This refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a savory element.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
3. Cheese Platter: Assorted cheeses provide a savory contrast that enhances the flavors of the orange glaze.
4. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A mix of almonds, walnuts, and dried apricots gives crunchy textures to balance the soft loaf.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful temperature contrast when served warm.
6. Caramelized Pears: Sweet caramelized pears add sophistication and depth, making for an elegant pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can result in a dense cake. Always use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off your cake’s balance. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Skipping the glaze: The orange glaze adds essential flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it’s what makes the cake shine!
• Opening the oven door too soon: Checking on your cake too early can cause it to collapse. Wait until the baking time is nearly up before peeking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a covered pan on low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze.

Can I use other fruits instead of dates?

Yes! You can substitute dried fruits like raisins or figs for a different flavor profile.

How do I make my Date and Orange Loaf Cake more moist?

Add an extra tablespoon of fresh orange juice or consider incorporating applesauce for added moisture.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly. You might need to adjust the liquid content.

How should I serve Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze?

This cake is delicious served plain, but it pairs perfectly with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat.

How long does this loaf cake last?

The Date and Orange Loaf Cake stays fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to customize with different fruits or spices according to your preference. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy the unique flavors that will surely impress your family and friends!

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Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Date and Orange Loaf Cake with Orange Glaze, a scrumptious dessert that beautifully marries the rich sweetness of dates with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges. This moist cake features a tender crumb that stays fresh longer, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual afternoon tea to festive celebrations. The smooth orange glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, elevating this loaf into a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with creamy toppings, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups pitted dates, chopped
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest and juice of 1 large orange
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Soak chopped dates in boiling water mixed with baking soda for about 10 minutes.
3. Cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla, orange zest, and juice.
4. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with orange juice until just mixed.
6. Fold in soaked dates along with their liquid.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 198
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added moisture, incorporate applesauce or an extra tablespoon of fresh orange juice. Feel free to substitute dates with other dried fruits such as raisins or figs for a unique twist.