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### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the Dates:**
– Chop the dates into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Pour 1 cup of hot water over the dates and let them soak for about 10-15 minutes. This softens the dates and makes them easier to blend into the batter.
3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients:**
– In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this bowl aside.
4. **Prepare the Wet Ingredients:**
– In another large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce (or mashed banana), vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix them together until smooth and well combined.
5. **Blend the Dates:**
– Once the dates have softened, mash them using a fork or blend them into a paste using an immersion blender or food processor. Add this date paste to the wet ingredients mixture and stir until well incorporated.
6. **Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures:**
– Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Add the chopped walnuts and mix until they are evenly distributed in the batter. If the batter seems too thick, you can add a little more water (a tablespoon at a time) to reach a soft, pourable consistency.
7. **Bake the Cake:**
– Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
8. **Cool and Serve:**
– Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, top with more chopped walnuts or drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
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### **Serving Suggestions:**
This eggless date and walnut cake is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a scoop of plant-based vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs beautifully with hot beverages like chai, herbal tea, or coffee. The cake is perfect for gatherings, birthday parties, or even as a wholesome afternoon snack.
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### **Tips for the Best Eggless Date and Walnut Cake:**
– **Use Fresh Dates:** Fresh dates will provide the best sweetness and texture. If your dates are a little dry, soak them longer in hot water to soften them up.
– **Make It Vegan:** To make this recipe vegan, simply ensure that all ingredients (like the sugar and the applesauce) are plant-based.
– **Substitute the Nuts:** While walnuts add a delicious crunch, you can also try using other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even leave them out if you prefer a nut-free version.
– **Storage:** Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
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### **Why You Should Try This Cake**
The combination of sweet dates, crunchy walnuts, and a fragrant spice mix makes this cake a winner for those who are looking for a healthier yet indulgent dessert. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply love the unique flavors of this eggless treat, this cake is sure to impress. It’s a simple, wholesome dessert that the whole family will enjoy, and it’s perfect for baking on a rainy day or celebrating a special occasion.
Give this recipe a try, and you might just find that it’s your new favorite cake!
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