Moist Persian Date Cake (Traditional & Comforting)

Moist Persian Date Cake is a beloved Middle Eastern–style dessert known for its deep caramel flavor, soft crumb, and natural sweetness from dates. Often served with tea or coffee, this cake is gently spiced, beautifully aromatic, and incredibly moist without being heavy. Unlike overly frosted cakes, Persian date cake shines through its rich flavor and tender texture—perfect for family gatherings, evenings with chai, or as a wholesome sweet treat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 40–45 minutes

Cooling Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

For the Cake

1 cup chopped pitted dates

1 tsp baking soda

1 cup boiling water

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)

2 large eggs (room temperature)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground cardamom (traditional Persian flavor)

¼ tsp salt

Optional Add-ins

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1 tbsp orange zest (for fragrance)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dates

Place chopped dates in a bowl. Sprinkle baking soda over them and pour in boiling water. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes until dates soften and form a thick paste. Set aside to cool slightly.

Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes). Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Make the Batter

Add the softened date mixture to the butter mixture and mix well. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in nuts or orange zest if using.

Bake the Cake

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

Pour batter evenly into the pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool & Serve

Let cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Dust lightly with powdered sugar

Serve with whipped cream or yogurt

Enjoy with Persian tea or coffee

Drizzle with honey or date syrup for extra richness

Tips for Extra Moist Cake

Don’t overmix the batter

Use soft, fresh dates for best texture

Let the cake rest—it becomes more moist the next day

Add a splash of milk if batter feels too thick

Final Thoughts

This Moist Persian Date Cake is a timeless dessert—naturally sweet, warmly spiced, and deeply comforting. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for everyday enjoyment or special occasions.