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–+ servings
Golden Date Cake
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 312 kcal

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
Keyword betty crocker, date cake, family cake, golden cake, handwritten recipe, layer cake, old-fashioned dessert, vintage recipe
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