Date Orange Cake is a flavorful, moist dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the tangy zest of candied orange slices. Chopped nuts and warm spices like cinnamon and allspice add depth, while a tender crumb makes this cake perfect for slicing and sharing. Baked in a loaf pan, this vintage recipe is a timeless treat, ideal for holidays, tea time, or as a delightful snack.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Date Orange Cake
Date Cake History
Date cakes have been cherished for centuries, with dates being one of the earliest cultivated fruits. Their natural sweetness made them a valuable ingredient in baking, especially before refined sugars were widely available. Pairing dates with citrus, like oranges, became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries as candied fruits gained prominence in American and European baking.
By the mid-20th century, recipes featuring convenience ingredients like candied orange slices and oleo (margarine) became staples in home kitchens. This cake is a wonderful example of how traditional ingredients like dates and spices were adapted into modern baking to create desserts with rich flavors and lasting appeal.
Timeline
- 4000 BC: Dates are cultivated in the Middle East.
- 19th Century: Candied fruits gain popularity in European and American baking.
- 1940s–50s: Margarine (oleo) becomes a common substitute for butter in home baking.
- Mid-20th Century: Recipes like Date Orange Cake become popular for their flavorful and accessible ingredients.
Recipe Discussion
This Date Orange Cake begins with dates soaked in hot water and baking soda, a step that softens the fruit and enhances its natural sweetness. The candied orange slices are finely chopped and coated in flour to ensure even distribution in the batter. The cake batter itself is made by creaming together sugar and margarine, then adding eggs, flour, spices, and the prepared fruit.
The addition of chopped nuts provides a satisfying crunch, while cinnamon and allspice add warmth and depth to the flavor. The batter is baked in a loaf pan, creating a dense, moist cake that slices beautifully. The balance of sweet dates, tangy orange, and crunchy nuts makes this a cake that’s rich but not overly sweet, making it perfect for a variety of occasions.
Preparation Tips
- Chop oranges finely: This ensures the candied orange slices are evenly distributed and don’t clump.
- Soak dates thoroughly: Let the dates fully soften in the hot water and soda mixture for the best texture.
- Use fresh spices: Ground cinnamon and allspice lose their potency over time, so use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Line the pan: Use parchment paper or grease the loaf pan well to prevent sticking.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Loaf pan: A quality 9×5-inch loaf pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
- Mixing bowls: A set of nesting bowls is perfect for prepping ingredients like dates and oranges.
- Chopping knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the candied orange slices and nuts easier.
- Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents condensation.
- Spice grinder: Freshly ground spices elevate the flavor of this cake.
Serving Suggestions
- With tea or coffee: Serve a slice with your favorite warm beverage for a comforting treat.
- Holiday dessert: Include this cake as part of a festive dessert spread.
- Toasted with butter: Lightly toast a slice and add a pat of butter for a decadent snack.
- Drizzle with glaze: Add a simple orange glaze or powdered sugar drizzle for extra sweetness.
- Gift option: Wrap the loaf in parchment paper and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
A Slice of Nostalgia
Date Orange Cake is a wonderful combination of old-fashioned flavors and easy preparation. The sweetness of dates and candied oranges, paired with the warm spices and nutty crunch, makes this cake a delightful addition to any table. Whether for a holiday celebration or a simple afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to bring back fond memories and create new ones. Try it for a taste of timeless baking!
Start Your Recipe Box
- Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
- View Recipe Cards and Templates
- View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves
Vintage Goodies
- Vintage Kitchenware on Etsy
- Vintage Recipes on Amazon
- Vintage Cookbooks on eBay
- Vintage Cookbooks on Etsy
Date Orange Cake Recipe
Date Orange Cake
A moist, flavorful loaf cake featuring dates, candied orange slices, nuts, and warm spices. Perfect for holidays, tea time, or as a nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 pound candy orange slices
- 2 eggs
- 1 8 ounce package dates
- 1 cup hot water
- 1⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup oleo
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon soda
Instructions
- Soak dates in hot water with soda.
- Cut orange slices fine in flour.
- Cream sugar and oleo, add beaten eggs.
- Pour in dates and add flour and candy, nuts and spices.
- Bake in loaf pan about 1 hour at 350.