Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake – Moist, Elegant & Gluten-Free

Introduction

Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake is everything a holiday dessert should be—warm, comforting, and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re planning your Seder table or simply looking for a flourless, flavorful dessert, this cake checks every box. With sticky-sweet dates, toasted walnuts, and bright citrus, it brings together the best textures and tastes in a way that feels nostalgic yet fresh.

When I first baked this cake, I wasn’t expecting it to steal the spotlight from the classics. But as guests reached for second slices and asked for the recipe, I realized this wasn’t just a new dessert—it was a new tradition. This cake doesn’t use matzo meal or leaveners, making it ideal for Passover and naturally gluten-free. If you’re looking for a truly standout Kosher for Passover dessert, this is it.

A Passover Cake That Tastes Like Tradition

The Sweet Story Behind Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake

The first time I made Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake, it was out of necessity—and a little creativity. I had no flour, no baking powder, and no time to test complicated recipes. But I had fresh oranges, medjool dates, and a jar of toasted walnuts. That mix, blended with eggs and a touch of honey, created something so rich and fragrant that I’ve made it every Passover since.

It’s the kind of cake that doesn’t feel like it’s following “rules”—even though it’s fully compliant. The natural sweetness of the dates makes added sugar almost unnecessary. The citrus adds brightness that cuts through the richness. And the walnuts give structure and depth without the need for flour.

The best part? You mix everything in one bowl, bake, and flip. No layering, no fancy gear—just pure flavor and tradition in every bite.

A Nutty, Citrusy Dessert That’s Flourless & Flavorful

Unlike most Passover walnut cake recipes that rely heavily on matzo meal, this one is completely flourless and deeply moist. It’s rich, but not dense. Sweet, but naturally so. And the blend of orange zest with caramel-like dates gives it a bakery-quality finish that feels far more luxurious than the effort involved.

If you’re a fan of vibrant, fruit-forward bakes like our cranberry orange bread with glaze, this cake will quickly become a holiday staple. Plus, it pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or even citrus-infused cocoa for a dessert that feels both grounded and elevated.

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Building the Perfect Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake

What Makes This Cake Kosher for Passover?

Making a truly satisfying Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake means understanding what you can—and can’t—use during Passover. No flour, no baking powder, and often no dairy. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice texture or flavor.

This cake is naturally flourless. Instead of relying on matzo meal or potato starch, it uses ground walnuts to provide structure. Dates act as both a sweetener and binder, while eggs offer lift. The result? A rich, moist crumb that doesn’t feel restricted by Passover limitations.

The cake is also free of leavening, making it compliant with strict Seder traditions. Yet it rises beautifully thanks to the eggs. When whipped well, they add enough volume to give this flourless orange cake its lightness.

And because it’s made without flour or dairy, it’s a perfect option for anyone gluten-sensitive or keeping kosher without needing to compromise on indulgence.

For another flourless, nut-based dessert perfect for holidays, try our Italian almond ricotta cake—it’s similarly moist and rich with almond flavor.

Choosing the Best Oranges, Dates & Walnuts for Flavor Depth

The quality of ingredients makes or breaks this cake. Always choose:

• Medjool dates: Their natural sweetness and softness are ideal
• Fresh oranges: Use both zest and juice—blood oranges work beautifully too
• Toasted walnuts: Toast them lightly in a skillet to bring out their oils and nutty aroma

You’ll also want good vanilla extract and a touch of salt to balance the sweetness. Optional spices like cinnamon or cardamom can add warmth and complexity.

This Passover cake with oranges is all about harmony—deep date richness balanced by citrus brightness and the earthy bite of walnuts. If you enjoy flavor layering, pair it with a cozy drink like orange hot chocolate for a stunning post-Seder combo.

From Mixing Bowl to Matzo-Approved Masterpiece

How to Avoid a Dense Cake & Nail the Texture

One of the most common concerns with any Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake is density. Without flour or leavening agents, many cakes fall flat—literally. But there’s a simple way to keep yours light, moist, and delicious every time.

First, use room temperature eggs and beat them thoroughly. This helps trap air and adds volume, acting as your natural rising agent. Second, make sure your dates are soft and blended well into the batter so they distribute evenly and don’t sink. A food processor or strong blender makes this step easy.

When incorporating the walnuts, don’t overmix. Ground nuts can release oils quickly, leading to a greasy or heavy cake. Mix until just combined, then stop. Bake until the center is just set—no more, no less.

For a guide to another moisture-packed, gluten-free dessert, try our mini cranberry pumpkin cheesecakes—another easy Passover cake recipe alternative you’ll love.

Passover Cake Variations: Chocolate, Almond, or Citrus Swaps

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are plenty of fun spins on the traditional Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake.

• Add dark chocolate chips: This turns it into a chocolate-date dream that feels extra indulgent.
• Substitute almonds for walnuts: This variation adds a lighter, slightly sweeter base.
• Use blood orange or tangerine zest: It changes the citrus profile and pairs beautifully with dates.
• Spice it up: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or cardamom for extra warmth.

This is a naturally gluten-free Passover cake, but it doesn’t taste like it’s missing anything. In fact, it might outshine your other year-round favorites. And if you love unexpected sweet combos, serve a slice next to caramel apple puppy chow at your dessert buffet. It’s a surprising hit.

When and How to Serve Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake

Can You Make It Ahead or Freeze It for the Seder?

Absolutely. In fact, Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake gets even better with time. Its flavor deepens as the citrus and date elements meld, making it ideal for prep-ahead situations. Bake it up to two days before your Seder, let it cool completely, and then store it tightly wrapped in the fridge.

Need to freeze it? You can. Wrap the whole cake (or slices) in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and bring to room temperature before serving. The moist crumb and rich texture hold up beautifully.

Because of its naturally high moisture from the dates and oranges, it remains a truly moist Passover dessert, even days later. It also travels well—perfect if you’re bringing dessert to someone else’s table.

If you’re planning a full holiday dessert lineup, this pairs wonderfully with pumpkin baked oatmeal with oat flour for brunch or with lighter treats like peppermint Oreo white chocolate bark for a mix of textures and flavors.

How to Store and Present This Stunning Passover Dessert

To store the cake, keep it wrapped in parchment or foil in an airtight container. For best freshness, refrigerate and enjoy within 5 days. You can also store it at room temperature for up to 48 hours if your kitchen is cool and dry.

When it’s time to serve, dust the top with a little powdered sugar (if your observance allows), and garnish with orange zest curls or chopped walnuts for an elegant touch.

This date walnut cake recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s visually stunning. The deep amber hue from the dates, the orange flecks from zest, and the rustic texture of the walnuts make it a centerpiece-worthy treat.

What Makes This Cake a Year-Round Favorite

Why This Isn’t Just for Passover

Although Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake was created with the Seder table in mind, it’s far too good to limit to one week a year. Its naturally gluten-free ingredients, rich flavor, and tender crumb make it a go-to recipe long after the matzo is gone.

Unlike many holiday desserts, this one doesn’t scream “Passover.” There’s no matzo meal, no strange textures, and no compromise on flavor. It feels indulgent, warm, and just a bit rustic—making it perfect for brunches, afternoon tea, or even as a thoughtful hostess gift.

Need something elegant but easy for Shabbat? This cake fits beautifully. Its simplicity and rich Middle Eastern flavors give it a timeless feel. And since it doesn’t rely on specialty items, you can make it year-round with pantry staples.

For an equally fuss-free and flavorful dessert, you’ll love our pumpkin muffins with oat flour—another recipe that blends cozy flavors with clean ingredients.

Pairing Ideas for Brunch, Tea, and Shabbat Dessert

Want to serve Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake beyond dessert time? Try it at brunch with strong coffee or a spiced herbal tea. The orange zest and dates complement warm beverages beautifully, especially when served at room temperature.

For an elegant tea-time treat, cut the cake into small squares and serve with sliced fruit and cheese. Or create a citrus-focused dessert board with this cake at the center, surrounded by items like peppermint hot chocolate with cocoa powder or cranberry-orange bread with glaze for a variety of textures and sweet profiles.

No matter when you serve it, this easy Passover cake recipe earns rave reviews. It’s that rare dessert—humble in ingredients, bold in flavor, and beautifully versatile.

Flavor Enhancers for Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake

Spices That Complement Citrus and Dates

While the original Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake is absolutely delicious in its pure form, a few spice additions can enhance the warm, earthy, and citrusy notes beautifully. Think of this cake as a canvas for layering depth without adding complexity.

The best spices for this cake include:

• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and deepens the sweetness of the dates
• Cardamom – Offers a floral, peppery hint that complements orange zest
• Clove – Use sparingly for a deep, spicy edge
• Ginger (ground or fresh) – Gives it brightness and zing

These spices don’t overwhelm but subtly elevate the natural flavor of the fruit and nuts. Start with ½ teaspoon of your favorite and adjust to taste. If you’re making this easy Passover cake recipe more than once a season (you will), changing up the spice profile keeps things fresh.

You can also pair spiced versions of the cake with drinks like pumpkin spiced hot chocolate or a glass of red wine for more mature palates.

Smart Ingredient Swaps for Allergies or Variety

Need to make this cake nut-free or egg-free? Or maybe you just want to shake things up? Here’s how:

• Nut-Free: Use ground sunflower seeds or coconut flour (¼ cup less)
• Egg-Free: Try a combo of applesauce + potato starch or aquafaba for binding
• No dates? Use dried figs or prunes, but soak them first to soften
• Swap citrus: Blood oranges or tangerines give it new personality
• Add texture: Fold in shredded coconut or chopped dried apricots

These variations turn the classic gluten-free Passover cake into something custom for your needs. For an equally flexible and allergy-friendly recipe, check out no-bake peanut butter protein balls—a quick treat with endless adaptations.

Make It the Centerpiece of Your Passover Dessert Table

Garnishes, Glazes & Finishing Touches

Once your Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake is baked, cooled, and ready to serve, a few thoughtful flourishes can take it from rustic treat to show-stopping Passover finale.

Here’s how to elevate its look and flavor:

• Citrus Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar (if your Passover practice allows) with fresh orange juice and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over the top for a glossy, tangy finish.
• Toasted Walnut Crumble: Chop a few extra walnuts, toast them, and sprinkle over the cake just before serving.
• Candied Orange Zest: Simmer strips of zest in sugar water, let dry, and use as a decorative topper.
• Date syrup drizzle: This adds deep sweetness and a beautiful shine—perfect for photos or presentation.

Even without toppings, this cake’s golden brown hue and rustic texture make it beautiful. But these small touches bring a refined, festive feel—ideal for holidays, brunches, or elegant gifting.

Pair with a rich hot drink like peppermint Oreo white chocolate bark on a dessert tray for a sweet contrast of flavors.

Styling Tips for Plating & Hosting

Hosting a Passover meal? Here’s how to spotlight your Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake as part of your dessert table:

• Serve it on a cake stand with fresh flowers or citrus slices around the base
• Pre-slice and place on a rustic wooden board with a silver cake knife for easy self-serve
• Pair with mini cranberry pumpkin cheesecakes for a colorful dessert spread
• Offer brewed herbal teas or citrus-infused water to enhance the bright orange notes

This Passover cake with oranges adds a handmade, heartfelt element to your table. Its simplicity and beauty speak for themselves—no need for over-the-top décor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake

A Passover Dessert to Celebrate All Year

Orange-Date-Walnut Passover Cake is more than just a holiday recipe—it’s a sweet reminder that simple, wholesome ingredients can create something deeply memorable. With its blend of sticky-sweet dates, zesty oranges, and crunchy walnuts, this cake satisfies the spirit of Passover while delivering a modern, flavorful twist.

It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re preparing for a Seder, hosting brunch, or craving a no-fuss, feel-good dessert, this cake fits every occasion.

Add it to your recipe box, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it well beyond the season. Just like any great tradition—it sticks with you.

External Link Resource:
For another version, check out this Passover Orange Walnut Torte on Food.com