A Taste of History: Date Coffee Cake from 1938
There’s something special about baking a cake from the past—it’s like stepping back in time and tasting a slice of history. One such vintage recipe that has stood the test of time is Date Coffee Cake from 1938. This Depression-era dessert showcases the resourcefulness of bakers during a time when ingredients were often limited, yet creativity flourished in the kitchen.
The Story Behind 1938 Date Coffee Cake
During the 1930s, home bakers relied on pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients to create delicious and filling treats for their families. Dates, which were naturally sweet and readily available, became a popular choice in baking. Their sticky, caramel-like texture added moisture to cakes, reducing the need for extra sugar and fats—a practical solution during times of economic hardship.
Coffee cakes of this era were often simple yet flavorful, meant to be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Unlike modern coffee cakes, which often have heavy streusel toppings, the 1938 version focused more on the natural sweetness of dates, enhanced with warm spices and a tender crumb.
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This classic recipe is based on ingredients and baking methods commonly used in the late 1930s. It’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
Why This Cake Is Still Loved Today
This Date Coffee Cake is a testament to timeless flavors. It’s soft, subtly spiced, and naturally sweetened by dates, making it a nostalgic treat that still holds up today. Whether you’re a vintage recipe enthusiast or just looking for a comforting homemade cake, this recipe is worth trying.
So why not take a trip back in time and bake a piece of history? Serve this delightful cake with your favorite coffee, and enjoy a taste of 1938!
Date Coffee Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk if your batter is very dry add a little more milk
- 1 ¾ cup flour (sifted
- ¾ pound dates clean and remove stones, cut into piecesapproximately 2 cups
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Watkins vanilla baking or double strength
- Little salt
- Watkins Cinnamon and sugar for the top
Instructions
- Cream butter, add sugar, mix well, add alternatively little milk and flour sifted with baking powder, Watkins vanilla. Mix thoroughly, place batter into buttered baking pan. Press dates into batter. Sprinkle top with little granulated sugar, and Watkins Cinnamon. Bake about 30 minutes in a 375 degree oven or until done.