Description
This Date Custard Cake is a delightful Middle Eastern-inspired dessert that combines the rich, caramel-like flavor of dates with a creamy custard topping baked to perfection. The moist date cake base soaked with a sweet custard creates a luscious texture contrast, making it a comforting treat perfect for special occasions or an indulgent everyday dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: In a bowl, combine chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to soften the dates and develop flavor.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure proper incorporation, then add vanilla extract for aroma and sweetness.
- Combine Dates and Dry Ingredients: Stir the soaked dates along with their liquid into the wet mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish and Pour Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cake batter into the dish and spread evenly to form the cake base.
- Make Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Pour Custard Over Cake Batter: Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish without stirring, so the custard settles on top.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked cake to cool slightly before serving warm. This enhances the flavors and texture, making it a delicious comforting treat.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for a sweeter and softer cake texture.
- For extra richness, serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving to preserve moisture and flavor.
