A moist, aromatic loaf cake infused with coffee-soaked dates, warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and topped with a velvety espresso glaze—perfect for cozy afternoons or your next coffee break.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups pitted and chopped dates

• 1 cup hot brewed coffee

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped walnuts

For the Espresso Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp brewed espresso (or strong coffee)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prep the Oven & Pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Soften the Dates
   In a bowl, combine chopped dates and hot brewed coffee. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until the dates are soft and the mixture cools slightly.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

4. Cream Butter & Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Mixtures
   Stir the date-coffee mixture into the butter mixture. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix just until incorporated—do not overmix.

6. Add Walnuts
   Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.

7. Bake the Cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cake
   Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Make the Glaze
   In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.

10. Glaze & Serve
    Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the espresso glaze over the top. Let it set slightly before slicing and serving.

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Serving Tip:
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a warm, comforting treat. This loaf also makes a thoughtful homemade gift!