Name: Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 200 g Pitted dates; 200 ml Black tea (boiling hot); 100 g Butter (softened); 150 g Soft light brown sugar; 1 Egg; 1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract; 215 g Self-raising flour; ½ Teaspoon Baking soda; ½ Teaspoon Cinnamon; 80 g Walnuts (plus a few more for sprinkling on top); 120 g Butter (softened); ½ Teaspoon Vanilla extract; 120 g Icing sugar; 240 g Cream cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 55 reviews

If you are looking for a cozy, comforting slice of sweetness that combines the rich flavors of dates and walnuts with a luscious cream cheese topping, this Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe will become your new favorite. This traybake cake is wonderfully moist, packed with natural sweetness from soaked dates, and has a slight crunch from toasted walnuts, making it a perfect treat for afternoon tea, dessert, or any time you crave something heartwarming and satisfying. The cream cheese icing adds just the right balance of tangy creaminess that lifts the entire cake to another level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, grainy light brown mixture that has a slightly wet texture. A woman's hand with pale pink nail polish holds a wooden spoon stirring the mixture, while her other fingers rest gently on the side of the bowl. The mixture spreads unevenly along the bottom and sides, showing texture variations with some clumps and smooth areas. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this cake’s irresistible flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role, from the naturally sweet pitted dates and fragrant cinnamon to the crunchy walnuts that lend wonderful texture.

Pitted dates (200 g): Chopped and soaked in hot tea for natural sweetness and moisture.
Black tea (200 ml, boiling hot): Used to soak the dates, infusing subtle depth and softness.
Butter, softened (100 g + 120 g): Creates tender crumb and creamy icing.
Soft light brown sugar (150 g): Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
Egg (1): Binds the batter and enriches the texture.
Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons): Brings warmth and enhances other flavors.
Self-raising flour (215 g): Provides structure with a light rise.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully.
Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle spice that complements the dates perfectly.
Walnuts (80 g plus extra for decoration): Chopped into the batter for crunch and nuttiness.
Icing sugar (120 g): Sweetens the cream cheese icing to perfection.
Cream cheese (240 g): Gives the topping its creamy tang and smooth texture.

How to Make Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 180℃ (or 160℃ if you are using a fan oven). Line an 8 by 10 inch baking tin with baking paper to ensure your cake bakes evenly and comes out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Soak the Dates

Chop your pitted dates into small chunks. Place them in a bowl and pour over the boiling black tea. Let them soak for about 10 minutes – this step softens the dates, allowing their natural sweetness to seep into the batter and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and soft light brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This is the base that will create a tender, rich crumb for your traybake.

Step 4: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Dates

Stir in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly, then gently fold in the soaked date mixture along with any remaining tea liquid. This adds incredible flavor and moisture to your cake batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the self-raising flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add these to your wet mixture and stir until you achieve a smooth, consistent cake batter packed full of flavor.

Step 6: Fold in Walnuts and Bake

Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts to add delightful crunch. Pour the batter into your prepared baking tin and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This golden bake will smell absolutely heavenly.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare Icing

Allow your traybake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese icing by mixing together softened butter, vanilla extract, and icing sugar until smooth. Then add in the cream cheese a little at a time and beat until creamy and spreadable.

Step 8: Ice and Decorate

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese icing evenly across the top. Garnish with extra walnuts for a beautiful rustic finish that’s sure to impress.

How to Serve Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe

A square piece of cake sits on a white plate with blue flower patterns, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has two layers: a bottom thick brown layer with a rough texture filled with dark bits and small nut pieces, and a top creamy white layer that looks smooth and soft with some small chopped nuts sprinkled on top. The edges of the cake are sharp and clean, showing a clear separation between the brown base and white frosting photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling a few extra chopped walnuts on top right after icing adds a lovely crunch and an inviting look. For a special touch, dust a little cinnamon or cocoa powder over the icing just before serving to enhance its warm flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee, making it a lovely choice for afternoon treats. For a decadent twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the earthy sweetness of the dates and nuts.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the traybake into bite-sized squares for a charming tea party platter. Alternatively, slice it into generous wedges and serve on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit like figs or pear slices to elevate the presentation and flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe, you can keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and the cream cheese icing fresh.

Freezing

If you want to make this cake ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in cling film and store them in an airtight freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this may soften the cream cheese icing too much.

FAQs

Can I substitute the black tea for something else?

Absolutely! You can use strong brewed coffee or warm water if you prefer, but black tea adds a subtle depth that complements the dates beautifully.

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Yes, feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or almonds depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference. Each nut will bring its own unique texture and flavor.

Is this cake suitable for freezing before or after icing?

It is best to freeze the cake before adding the cream cheese icing. This prevents the icing from cracking or becoming grainy when thawed.

How long does the cream cheese icing keep in the fridge?

You can store cream cheese icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a quick stir before spreading if it has been stored for a while.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free self-raising flour blend to substitute the regular flour. The cake texture will remain moist and delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you love the comforting flavors of dates and walnuts combined in a moist cake with irresistible cream cheese frosting, then this Date & Walnut Traybake Cake Recipe deserves a special spot in your baking repertoire. It’s an easy-to-make treat that feels both nostalgic and special, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished favorite at your table, guaranteed!