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–+ servings
Date Cake Cup Cakes
Date Cake Cupcakes are a charming twist on the traditional date cake, transforming the rich, moist crumb into perfectly portioned individual treats. Popular when dried fruits were reliable pantry staples, date cakes became known for their deep caramel-like sweetness and tender texture created by soaking dates in hot water with baking soda. These cupcakes offer the same comforting flavor in a convenient form, ideal for gatherings, lunchboxes, or holiday trays. Studded with nuts and lightly scented with vanilla, they deliver warmth, nostalgia, and timeless homemade appeal in every bite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup dates (chopped )
  • ½ cup shortening
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup nuts (chopped )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Date Mixture

  • Pour hot water over chopped dates.
  • Stir in baking soda and salt.
  • Let cool completely.

Step 2: Cream Shortening and Sugar

  • Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

  • Beat in the egg.
  • Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

  • Stir the cooled date mixture into the creamed mixture.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Fold in flour gradually.
  • Stir in chopped nuts.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Pan

  • Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  • Fill each cup about ¾ full.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
  • Test with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool

  • Allow cupcakes to cool in pan for 5 minutes.
  • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

  • Add ½ tsp cinnamon for warm spice flavor.
  • Substitute butter for shortening for richer taste.
  • Add orange zest for brightness.
  • Top with cream cheese frosting.
  • Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
  • Use pecans or walnuts for texture contrast.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  • Soak dates in brewed coffee instead of water for depth.

Nutrition

Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 110mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 2gSugar: 21gVitamin A: 220IUVitamin C: 0.5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword classic recipes, comfort food, cupcakes, dried fruit dessert, holiday baking, nostalgic food, vintage baking
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