How to Make Queen Elizabeth Cake: A Royal Treat for Your Taste Buds

Queen Elizabeth cake, a moist and delicious date-nut cake topped with a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth frosting, is a classic recipe that has graced tea tables for generations. Its origins are shrouded in a bit of mystery, with some attributing its creation to a royal chef for Queen Elizabeth II, while others believe it was inspired by earlier “Queen Cakes” dating back to the 18th century. Regardless of its history, one thing is for certain – this cake is fit for a queen (or king!) and is sure to impress your family and friends with its irresistible flavor and elegant simplicity.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Broiled Coconut Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded coconut

Queen Elizabeth Cake Ingredients

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Instructions

Get Started:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.

Make the Cake:

1. Combine dates and baking soda: In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates and baking soda. Pour boiling water over the mixture and let it stand for 15 minutes, or until the dates soften.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in date mixture and nuts: Stir in the cooled date mixture and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Make the Broiled Coconut Frosting:

1. Combine butter and milk: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the milk and stir to combine.
2. Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Frost the cake: Pour the frosting over the cooled cake and spread evenly.
4. Sprinkle with coconut: Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the frosting.
5. Broil: Place the cake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the coconut is lightly toasted and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.

Queen Elizabeth Cake Frosting

Tips and Tricks

• For a richer flavor, use brown sugar: Substitute light brown sugar for granulated sugar in the cake batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined.
• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
• Toast the coconut ahead of time: For a more intense coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned before adding it to the frosting.

FAQs

Can I make Queen Elizabeth cake without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be omitted entirely or replaced with other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries.

How should I store Queen Elizabeth cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze Queen Elizabeth cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake before or after frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Queen Elizabeth cake is a timeless dessert that is easy to make and sure to please a crowd. With its moist, flavorful cake and decadent coconut frosting, this recipe is perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Give it a try and share this royal treat with your loved ones!

We’d love to hear about your experience making Queen Elizabeth cake! Share your thoughts and photos with us in the comments below.