Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Date and Apple Sheet Cake is a deliciously moist dessert that beautifully combines the natural sweetness of dates with tart, juicy apples. This cake is easy to prepare and bakes up to a lovely golden-brown finish. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful afternoon snack, the flavors meld together wonderfully, offering a rich, satisfying taste in every bite. The cake also boasts a wonderful texture thanks to the shredded apples, while the dates add caramel-like sweetness and a hint of chewiness. Whether served warm from the oven or as a chilled treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

The cake is incredibly flexible, allowing bakers to swap out ingredients or add their own twist. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create something truly special that impresses friends and family alike. Ideal for any occasion, Date and Apple Sheet Cake provides a delightful solution for potlucks, birthdays, and tea parties.

Ingredients about Date and Apple Sheet Cake

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (about 2 medium) shredded apples (peeled)
• 1 cup (150g) pitted dates, chopped

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you don’t have all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. For the sugar, honey or maple syrup can be substituted for a more natural sweetener, though adjustments may be needed for liquid content. Instead of vegetable oil, melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce can be used for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking sheet, and grease it carefully. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This helps to ensure your cake comes out perfectly and doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until they are fully mixed. This ensures that the leavening agent, baking soda, is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for a well-risen cake. Set this mixture aside for use later.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl, crack three large eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This second step incorporates air, helping to create a lighter cake texture. Next, add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples and Dates

Now it’s time to introduce the delicious shredded apples and chopped dates to the wet mixture. Gently fold in these ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. The apples provide moisture while the dates contribute a rich sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. Once these ingredients are mixed, gradually fold in the dry ingredients that you set aside in Step 2. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the mixture to be just combined for the best texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly across the surface. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the cake is done. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking sheet.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

After the cake has cooled, you can slice it into squares. This date and apple delight can be enjoyed immediately, although it can also be served later.

How to Serve Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Best ways to serve Date and Apple Sheet Cake

This cake can be served on its own or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a visual flair. It also pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. For added texture, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or yogurt over it once it has cooled.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pairing this cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee enhances the overall experience. The warm beverage complements the flavors of the cake while providing a comforting contrast. Alternatively, you could serve it alongside fresh fruit, such as slices of apple or pear, which will add some freshness to your dessert table.

How to Store Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Proper storage methods

To keep your Date and Apple Sheet Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it’s better to refrigerate the cake, where it can last up to a week.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you want to enjoy leftover cake later, you can freeze it. Cut the cake into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and enjoy it at room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave.

Tips to Make Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can result in a dense cake. Another is not measuring ingredients accurately; always use measuring cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ones. Lastly, make sure your baking soda is fresh for proper leavening; expired baking soda can lead to a sunken cake.

Helpful tips for better results

Ensure that your apples are well-shredded and drained of any excess moisture to prevent the cake from becoming too wet. Experimenting with the types of apples can yield different flavors; tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully. Don’t hesitate to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your dates; you can use less sugar if your dates are particularly sweet.

Variation of Date and Apple Sheet Cake

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can explore various twists on this cake by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. Alternatively, try adding dried fruits alongside the dates, such as raisins or cranberries, to blend flavor profiles. Spicing it up further with a touch of nutmeg or ginger can also elevate the flavor.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Using coconut or almond milk in place of vegetable oil can accommodate those needing dairy-free options. Gluten-free flour can be used for those avoiding gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy the delicious cake.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If the cake is too dense, you may have overmixed the batter or used old baking soda. Check your ingredients for freshness and make sure to combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. If the cake is dry, it may have baked too long or the apples were not juicy enough. Always watch the baking time closely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it a day or two in advance. Being kept in an airtight container helps maintain moisture and flavor. Just make sure to store it in a cool place or refrigerate it if you think it might spoil soon.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can substitute apples with pears or any other fruit that you prefer, although be aware that different fruits may require adjustments in moisture and baking time. Dates can be interchanged with prunes or figs for a different texture and flavor. Additionally, egg substitutes like chia seeds or commercial egg replacements work well in this recipe for those with allergy concerns.

Enjoy your Date and Apple Sheet Cake and have fun experimenting with it! This delightful dessert is sure to please everyone at your table.

Print