Sticky Date Cake Recipe (Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (180g) pitted dates, chopped

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • A pinch of salt

• For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

  • A pinch of salt

Method:

1. Prepare the Dates:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or square baking dish.

   • In a bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over the dates and let them sit for 10 minutes to soften.

   • After 10 minutes, mash the dates lightly with a fork, leaving a few chunks for texture.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

   • Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

   • Fold the mashed date mixture into the batter, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Cake:

   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

5. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

   • While the cake is baking, make the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.

   • Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.

   • Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce cool slightly.

6. Serve the Sticky Date Cake:

   • Slice the cake into servings and place on individual plates.

   • Drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over each slice.

   • You can serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: Both the cake and caramel sauce can be made a day ahead. Reheat the sauce before serving.

• Date Alternatives: You can substitute the dates with figs or raisins for a different flavor profile.

• Extra Richness: For a richer caramel sauce, add a tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the caramel while it simmers.

This Sticky Date Cake with caramel sauce is a classic dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence, making it a great option for any occasion.