This Golden Date Cake is a classic Betty Crocker recipe that delivers a moist, rich cake infused with chopped dates and a buttery flavor. The combination of shortening, milk, vanilla, and a hint of salt creates a tender crumb, while the dates add natural sweetness and texture. Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe reflects mid-20th-century baking traditions and offers a timeless taste that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sifted flour
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup shortening
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs (large )
- 1 cup dates (finely chopped)
- ½ cup nuts (chopped)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add Shortening and Milk
- Add shortening and milk to the dry mixture.
- Beat for 2 minutes until well combined.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Mix in vanilla extract and eggs.
- Beat for 1 additional minute until smooth.
Step 4: Fold in Dates and Nuts
- Gently fold in the finely chopped dates and nuts until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 8–9″ round cake pans or a single oblong pan.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow cake to cool on a wire rack before removing from the pan.
- Slice and serve as is or top with your favorite frosting.
Tips
- Chop dates finely to ensure even distribution in the batter
- Lightly toss dates in flour to prevent sinking during baking
- Substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts if preferred
- Line pans with parchment for easier cake removal
- Add a simple vanilla buttercream or caramel frosting
- Soak dates briefly in hot water for extra-moist texture
- For a lighter crumb, be sure to beat for the full times indicated
- Toast the nuts before folding in for deeper flavor
- Bake on center oven rack for even cooking
- Let fully cool before frosting to prevent crumbling
Nutrition
Calories: 312kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 190mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 80IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 1.5mg
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