Dates and Walnut Cake

Inspired from a  dear friend's recipe of a Dates cake, we decided to try out a similar version that doesn't call for any eggs or  butter. Whats even better; the main ingredient, dates are loaded with iron. So pretty much, its a guilt free, healthy indulgence. Without anymore thinking, just go ahead and try this  delicious cake.

Prep Time: 45 mins
Ingredients

All Purpose flour/Maida: 1 cup
Dates (pitted): 16
Walnut (chopped):  Handful
Oil: 1/3 cup or Butter: 1/2 stick
Sugar: 1/3 cup
Milk:1/2 cup
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Water: 3 tablespoons

* Though we didn't use butter in the recipe, we have shown it because many of them prefer to use butter instead of oil. We have used Canola oil in the recipe.

* Please check the final batter before baking for the sugar level. We have used very little sugar because the dates brings in its own sweetness.

In the mixer, beat the oil and half of the sugar well. Add in the milk and beat once again. Add the flour to this mixture and run the mixer once again. 

Now take a deep pan and boil water and add  half of the sugar. Once its dissolved add the dates and stir for some time. When the dates are almost cooked, add the baking soda. Turn off the gas. The baking soda will fuzz up and rise. Pour this into the flour mixture and give a through run until the batter is all smooth.

Add walnuts and pour into a greased baking tray or a loaf pan and bake at 375° F for about 35-40 mins or until the centre comes out clean when poked with a knife.

Let it cool for a while before you slice it. Enjoy this with your evening cup of tea.