Name: Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491102H59M17S
Total time: PT-491102H59M17S
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates, chopped; 1 cup boiling water; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup unsalted vegan butter or oil; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 eggs or egg replacer; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground cardamom; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar or chopped nuts

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the heart of Persian cuisine, this Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture this: tender cake infused with the natural sweetness of dates, all wrapped up in the cozy embrace of cinnamon and aromatic cardamom. Whether you’re planning a special gathering or just want to treat yourself on an ordinary afternoon, this cake delivers that perfect balance of rich flavor and delightful softness that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four bowls on a white marbled surface with a multicolor floral pattern beneath them. The center bowl holds a smooth, pale yellow creamy mixture with a thick texture, swirled lightly on the surface. To the top right, there is a bowl filled with light beige flour and a wooden scoop resting in it. On the top left, a bowl contains several large, shiny dark brown dates with a wrinkled texture. At the bottom right, the fourth bowl holds chopped pieces of dark brown nuts or a similar ingredient with a rough texture. The bowls are white with intricate floral designs on their outer rims. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating this cake is easier than you might think because it relies on simple but deeply flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—dates lend natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon and cardamom bring those inviting Persian spices that awaken the senses. Together, these ingredients form the backbone of a beautifully textured, aromatic cake that’s a joy to bake and even more delightful to eat.

1 cup pitted dates, chopped: These add luscious sweetness and keep the cake moist.
1 cup boiling water: Used to soften the dates so they melt into the batter perfectly.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps balance acidity and adds lightness to the cake.
½ cup unsalted vegan butter or oil: Provides richness and tenderness to the crumb.
½ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and moist texture.
2 eggs or egg replacer: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the soft structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds aromatic warmth.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with the right texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers that classic cozy spice that complements the dates beautifully.
½ teaspoon ground cardamom: A signature Persian flavor that gives the cake its exotic flair.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Provides a gentle rise for a light crumb.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
Powdered sugar or chopped nuts for garnish (optional): Adds a pretty finishing touch and extra texture.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

The magic starts by soaking the chopped dates in boiling water mixed with baking soda. This step softens the dates, transforming them into a luscious compote that will melt into your batter and keep every bite wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Next, cream together your vegan butter or oil with brown sugar until fluffy. This process is key to incorporating air, which helps give the cake its tender texture. It’s also when the sugar starts to dissolve, promising that beautifully sweet crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs or your chosen egg replacer along with vanilla extract. These ingredients enhance the flavor and structure of the cake, ensuring it is rich but not dense.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This keeps your spices evenly distributed and makes for a perfectly spiced bite every time.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly stir the softened date mixture into the butter and sugar blend, then gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this step preserves the cake’s tender crumb.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your greased 8-inch baking dish, smoothing the top for an even bake. Pop it into your preheated 350°F oven, and in about 30-35 minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and cardamom signaling that your cake is ready.

Step 7: Cooling and Garnishing

Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for a lovely crunch and festive appearance.

How to Serve Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe

A round dark gray baking pan filled with two layers of soft, creamy custard-like mixture; the bottom layer is slightly golden with a light, airy texture, and the top layer is smooth, pale yellow, being spread evenly with a wooden spoon held by a woman's hand. The pan sits on a small wooden board on a white marbled surface, with a beige cloth napkin folded nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This cake shines with simple enhancements. A delicate dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, while chopped toasted walnuts or pistachios introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty depth that complements the Persian spices.

Side Dishes

Pair your slice with a scoop of creamy yogurt or a drizzle of tahini to balance the sweetness. A warm cup of chai tea or black coffee also elevates the experience, intertwining perfectly with the cake’s complex flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful dessert platter, serve the cake alongside fresh fruit like figs or pomegranate seeds to echo the Middle Eastern inspiration. Another idea is to layer pieces between thin slices of rosewater-infused whipped cream for an elegant Persian-inspired treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe keeps beautifully stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. This resting time actually enhances the flavor as the spices meld even further.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, this cake maintains its moist texture for up to 2 months, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s fresh-from-the-oven warmth, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This melts the spices back to life and keeps the crumb soft and inviting.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Regular unsalted butter works perfectly and will add a rich flavor. Using vegan butter or oil is just a great alternative for those with dietary preferences.

How important is soaking the dates?

Soaking the dates in boiling water with baking soda is essential as it softens them, allowing the natural sweetness to blend beautifully into the cake, keeping it moist and tender.

Can I substitute the flour with almond meal as mentioned?

Yes, swapping half the all-purpose flour with almond meal creates a slightly denser texture and adds a lovely nutty flavor. It’s a delicious variation that pairs wonderfully with the spices.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! The elegant flavors of cinnamon and cardamom combined with the rich sweetness of dates make this cake a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or celebrations.

What if I want to make it gluten-free?

You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about the Moist Persian Date Cake with Cinnamon and Cardamom Recipe. It’s a lovely reminder that simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create magic in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing this aromatic, tender cake as much as I do. Trust me, it’s one treat that will bring warmth and a touch of Persian sweetness to your table, time and time again.