Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of coffee wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s paired with the deep, caramel-like sweetness of dates and the nutty crunch of walnuts. That’s exactly the kind of cozy comfort you get with this Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts. It’s moist, rich, gently spiced, and perfect for slicing with a hot cup of tea or coffee on a quiet afternoon. One bite, and you’ll understand why loaf cakes have been a timeless favorite in homes around the world.

Fun fact: dates have been used in baking for centuries as a natural sweetener, long before refined sugar became common. Combined with coffee, they create a flavor that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity—you don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques. It comes together quickly, uses everyday pantry ingredients, and is wonderfully family-friendly. Kids love its sweetness, adults adore its coffee depth, and everyone appreciates how effortlessly it bakes up beautifully.

If you’ve enjoyed my classic banana bread or the ever-popular chocolate chip loaf on the blog, this recipe will feel like a warm, familiar friend—just with a more grown-up, café-style twist. It’s the kind of bake that feels impressive but is secretly easy. Preheat your oven, grab your loaf pan, and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite.

What is Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts?

So, what exactly is Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts, and why does it sound so fancy yet so comforting? Is it a cake? Is it bread? The answer is happily… both! It’s a soft, tender loaf cake sweetened with dates, infused with coffee, and dotted with crunchy walnuts. And honestly, isn’t that a dream combination?

Legend has it that this type of loaf became popular when home bakers wanted something elegant enough for guests but simple enough for everyday baking. Coffee adds depth, dates bring natural sweetness, and walnuts give that satisfying bite. After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—and this loaf certainly knows the way. Whether you bake it for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack, there’s only one thing left to do: try it and see why this humble loaf has such devoted fans.

Why You’ll Love This Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

First, the main highlight: flavor and texture. This loaf is incredibly moist thanks to the dates, richly aromatic from the coffee, and perfectly balanced with crunchy walnuts. Each slice feels indulgent without being overly sweet, making it ideal for any time of day.

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Making Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts at home costs far less than buying a café loaf, and you likely already have most ingredients in your pantry. Dates are a natural sweetener, meaning you can even reduce refined sugar without sacrificing taste.

Third, the ingredients are what truly make it shine. Toasted walnuts add warmth and crunch, while coffee enhances the depth of flavor beautifully. If you loved my walnut-studded carrot loaf, this recipe is a must-try next. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to bake this at home.

How to Make Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

Quick Overview

This Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts is as easy as mixing, pouring, and baking. No fancy steps, no stress. The batter comes together in about 15 minutes, and the loaf bakes in under an hour. The result? A soft, fragrant cake with a rich crumb and irresistible aroma.

Key Ingredients for Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 200g pitted dates, chopped

• 240ml hot brewed coffee (strong)

• 100g brown sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 100ml vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 220g all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 100g walnuts, roughly chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dates
   Place the chopped dates in a bowl and pour over the hot coffee. Let them soak for 10 minutes until soft and plump. This step adds moisture and deep flavor.

2. Preheat and prepare
   Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

3. Mix wet ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and brown sugar until smooth. Add oil and vanilla extract, mixing well.

4. Combine dry ingredients
   In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

5. Bring it together
   Add the soaked dates (including coffee) to the wet mixture. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

6. Add walnuts
   Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

7. Bake
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and slice
   Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely before slicing.

What to Serve Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts With

This loaf pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. Feeling indulgent? Add a light smear of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey. It also works wonderfully as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Top Tips for Perfecting Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts

• Use strong coffee for the best flavor—weak coffee won’t shine through.

• Toast the walnuts lightly before adding for extra depth.

• Swap walnuts for pecans if you prefer a softer nut.

• Avoid overmixing the batter; it keeps the loaf tender.

• If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store your Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, slice and freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature. The flavor deepens over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

If you’re looking for a comforting, café-style bake that’s easy, economical, and bursting with flavor, this Date Coffee Loaf Cake with Walnuts deserves a spot in your kitchen. Happy baking! ☕🍰