Picnic Date Cake Recipe
Total Time: 55 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 1 9×13-inch pan
Category: Dessert
Servings: 12-16 servings (depending on serving size)
This Picnic Date Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that is perfect for a family picnic or any gathering. With a combination of dates, cinnamon, and chocolate chips, this cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Its simple yet delicious ingredients make it a perfect addition to any sweet table. Prepare it in just under an hour and enjoy a wonderful treat with loved ones.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Hot water | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Shortening | 3/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 1 cup |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 5749.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 252.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 76.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 423 mg |
| Sodium | 1977.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 864.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.3 g |
| Sugars | 621 g |
| Protein | 61.8 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dates: Begin by chopping the dates into small pieces. In a medium bowl, pour the hot water over the dates and set aside to allow them to soak until they are cool. This helps soften the dates, making them easier to mix into the batter later.
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Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the eggs, granulated sugar, and shortening. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add Dry Ingredients: To the creamed mixture, add the salt, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Add the Flour and Dates: Gradually add the flour to the batter, mixing until just combined. Stir in the soaked dates along with the remaining liquid from the soak. The batter should be thick but slightly pourable.
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Prepare the Pan: Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle the brown sugar and chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter. These toppings will melt and create a delightful, sweet crust as the cake bakes.
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Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Picnic Date Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired!
This Picnic Date Cake is ideal for family picnics, barbecues, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. Its rich and moist texture, combined with the subtle sweetness of dates and the indulgence of chocolate chips, makes it a standout dessert that everyone will love. The simplicity of the recipe ensures it can be prepared quickly, but the results are undeniably delicious.
