Date and Coconut Cake – Naturally Sweet, Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

If you’re looking for a naturally sweet, wholesome cake that’s free from refined sugar, gluten, grains, and dairy, this Date and Coconut Cake is perfect. It’s rich, moist, and packed with flavour, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• No Refined Sugar: Sweetened naturally with dates.

• Gluten & Grain-Free: Made with desiccated coconut instead of flour.

• Dairy-Free: Uses coconut oil for a rich texture.

• Simple Ingredients: Wholesome, pantry-friendly staples.

Ingredients

• 350g pitted dates

• 350ml water

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 350g desiccated coconut

• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 160ml coconut oil (melted)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 4 eggs

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-forced) and line a 10-inch cake tin with baking paper.

2. Prepare the dates: In a saucepan, bring the dates and water to a boil. Add the bicarbonate of soda and stir until dissolved. Let it cool slightly, then blend in a food processor until smooth. Transfer to a separate bowl.

3. Process the coconut separately: Add the desiccated coconut to a clean food processor and blend until it moves past a flour-like texture and starts forming a smooth coconut butter consistency.

4. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the processed coconut with baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.

5. Combine wet ingredients: Stir the blended date mixture and melted coconut oil into the dry ingredients.

6. Whisk the eggs: In a stand mixer or with a hand whisk, beat the eggs until doubled in size and airy.

7. Fold in the eggs: Gently fold the eggs into the cake mixture in three parts to maintain as much air as possible.

8. Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared cake tin and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.

9. Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool fully in the fridge before slicing for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is rich, naturally sweet, and full of flavour. It tastes even better when served cold! Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast with a cup of tea.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for a longer shelf life.

If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of dates, especially in late-term pregnancy, check out my other blog post on this topic!

This Date and Coconut Cake is proof that simple, whole-food ingredients can create something truly delicious. Give it a try and let me know what you think!