Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square cake pan.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine the chopped dates with boiling water and stir in the baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soften.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 5

Stir the date mixture (with its liquid) into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 7

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.

Step 8

Fold in the chopped walnuts and pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.

Step 9

Bake the Walnut and Date Cake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11

If using the glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake and serve.