Tuscan Coffee Cake with Walnut-Date Filling

Indulge in this Tuscan Coffee Cake with Walnut-Date Filling, a perfect blend of tender, buttery cake and a sweet, nutty filling. Every bite delivers a delightful mix of soft cake and chewy dates, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of golden raisins or dried cranberries. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon coffee, this Italian-inspired coffee cake is both festive and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, buttery, and aromatic with a nutty-sweet filling
• Balanced sweetness from dates, raisins, and golden cranberries
• Easy to make with common pantry ingredients
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or gifting during holidays
• Can be served plain, with glaze, or dusted with powdered sugar

Ingredients

Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Filling

• 1 cup (113g) toasted walnuts, very coarsely chopped
• 3/4 cup (113g) dates, chopped
• 3/4 cup (128g) golden raisins or dried cranberries
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round or square cake pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extract. Mix until fully combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Add dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently until smooth.
6. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine toasted walnuts, chopped dates, and golden raisins or cranberries.
7. Assemble Cake: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Spread filling evenly over the batter, leaving a small border at the edges. Carefully spoon remaining batter over the filling and smooth the top.
8. Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Filling variations: Swap walnuts with pecans, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Glaze option: Drizzle simple powdered sugar glaze or almond icing over the top.
• Make mini cakes: Use muffin tins for individual servings, layering a small amount of filling in each.
• Make ahead: Cake can be baked a day before serving and stored in an airtight container.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Store for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm with coffee, cappuccino, or hot tea.
• Pair with whipped cream, mascarpone, or a drizzle of honey.
• Add fresh fruit or a fruit compote alongside for a festive presentation.
• Sprinkle extra toasted walnuts on top for garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt works well and keeps the cake moist while adding a slight tang.

How do I store to maintain the filling texture?

Keep the cake airtight at room temperature or refrigerate. Avoid stacking slices to prevent crushing the filling.

Can I use other dried fruits in the filling?

Absolutely! Chopped apricots, figs, or mixed dried berries work well.

Ready to Make It?

This Tuscan Coffee Cake with Walnut-Date Filling is soft, buttery, and full of rich flavors — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat with coffee. Try it today and enjoy an Italian-inspired delight in every bite!

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