A warm, cozy loaf packed with sweet Medjool dates, crunchy toasted walnuts, and deep coffee flavor. Finished with a silky espresso glaze, this café-style cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon coffee break.
📝 Ingredients
For the Cake
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups Medjool dates, chopped
1 cup strong brewed coffee, hot
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
For the Espresso Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1½ tbsp strong espresso
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Directions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dates
Place the chopped Medjool dates in a bowl and pour the hot brewed coffee over them. Let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes to soften the dates, then mash lightly with a fork.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
4️⃣ Combine the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the coffee-date mixture. Stir gently until the batter becomes smooth and well combined.
5️⃣ Add the Walnuts
Fold in the toasted chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
6️⃣ Bake the Loaf
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and pour the batter inside, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before glazing.
7️⃣ Prepare the Espresso Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, espresso, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
8️⃣ Finish and Serve
Drizzle the espresso glaze over the cooled loaf cake. If desired, sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top.
Slice and serve with a fresh cup of coffee for the perfect cozy treat.
📊 Recipe Info
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8–10 slices
Calories: ~320 per slice