Few baked treats feel as timeless and reassuring as a Date & Walnut Slice. Dense yet tender, naturally sweet, and packed with texture, this old-fashioned bake has earned its place in kitchens around the world. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, served as an afternoon snack, or packed into lunchboxes, this slice delivers rich caramel notes from dates and a gentle crunch from walnuts in every bite.
In this SEO-optimized, 1000-word recipe article, you’ll find everything you need: background, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, baking tips, storage advice, and variations—so you can make the perfect homemade Date & Walnut Slice every time.
Why You’ll Love This Date & Walnut Slice
This recipe is a favorite for many reasons:
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Naturally sweet thanks to dates
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Soft and moist texture that keeps well for days
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Simple pantry ingredients
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No fancy equipment required
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Perfect for tea time, coffee breaks, or dessert
The combination of softened dates and toasted walnuts creates a slice that’s both comforting and satisfying—classic baking at its best.
Ingredients for Date & Walnut Slice
Date Mixture
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250 g pitted dates, chopped
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1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
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250 ml (1 cup) boiling water
Cake Batter
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125 g unsalted butter, softened
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150 g brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 large eggs
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225 g all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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120 g walnuts, roughly chopped
Optional Topping
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
How to Make Date & Walnut Slice (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Place the chopped dates in a heatproof bowl. Sprinkle over the bicarbonate of soda, then pour the boiling water on top. Stir gently and let the mixture stand for 10–15 minutes.
This step softens the dates and creates a thick, caramel-like mixture that gives the slice its signature moist texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until pale and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air into the batter, giving the slice a lighter crumb.
Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture looks slightly curdled, don’t worry—it will smooth out once the flour is added.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the slice dense.
Step 5: Add Dates and Walnuts
Fold in the soaked date mixture (including the liquid), followed by the chopped walnuts. The batter will be thick and glossy, with visible chunks of dates and nuts.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Line a rectangular baking tin (about 20 × 30 cm) with baking paper.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
