Finnish Date Cake Taatelikakku

Delight in the warm, spiced flavors of Finnish Date Cake (Taatelikakku), a classic Nordic treat that perfectly balances indulgence with natural sweetness. This moist, tender cake is made with pitted dates simmered into a rich paste, creating an irresistibly soft texture and caramel-like depth. Enhanced with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla, this recipe captures the comforting essence of Scandinavian baking. Perfect as an afternoon fika treat or a festive holiday dessert, this easy-to-make loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. With just 20 minutes of prep and a heavenly aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes, Taatelikakku is sure to become a favorite for cozy gatherings and simple moments alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 47/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 250 grams pitted dates
• 200 milliliters water
• 150 grams unsalted butter
• 150 grams granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 200 grams all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2

Chop the pitted dates into small pieces. Place them in a small saucepan with 200 milliliters of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3

Cook the dates for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and break down into a thick paste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk.

Step 5

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.

Step 7

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 8

Add the slightly cooled date mixture to the batter and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 9

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1071.5 grams (1071.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3263

Total Fat 141.00g	181%
Saturated Fat 78.50g	393%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 704mg	235%
Sodium 1664mg	72%
Total Carbohydrate 498.30g	181%
Dietary Fiber 23.80g	85%
Total Sugars 317.70g
Protein 39.00g	78%

Vitamin D 82IU	410%
Calcium 316mg	24%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 2148mg	46%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.1%

Protein: 4.6%

Carbs: 58.3%