No-Oven Sugar-Free Dates Cake – Naturally Sweet & Moist
If you’re craving a guilt free dessert that’s rich, moist and full of flavor – this sugar free Dates Cake is the perfect Choice !!
Made without refined sugar, eggs or an oven, this wholesome cake gets its natural sweetness from dates and ripe banana.. The subtle nuttiness of wheat flour and semolina, the richness of cocoa, and the crunch of walnuts and choco chips make every bite feel indulgent – yet healthy!!
Whether you’re trying to cut down on sugar, looking for a festive treat for diabetics, or simply want a naturally sweet, wholesome dessert, this steamed dates cake is a must – try.. Best of all, it’s easy to make using just a stove or steamer – no oven required!
Ingredients
- Dates – ½ cup (seedless, chopped)
- Warm milk – 1 cup
- Banana – 1 (ripe)
- Oil – ¼ cup (any neutral oil)
- Vanilla essence – ½ tsp
- Fine semolina (rava/sooji) – ½ cup
- Whole wheat flour – ½ cup
- Cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
- Chopped walnuts – 3 tbsp
- Choco chips – 3 tbsp
- Eno fruit salt – 1 sachet (for rising)
Method
Step 1: Soak the Dates
- Chop the seedless dates and soak them in warm milk for 10–15 minutes, until they become soft and plump. This softens the dates and makes them easy to blend.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a blender, add the soaked dates with milk, ripe banana, oil, and vanilla essence.
- Blend into a smooth, creamy puree.
- In a mixing bowl, combine semolina, wheat flour, and cocoa powder.
- Pour in the blended date-banana mixture and mix until you get a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Gently fold in chopped walnuts and choco chips for texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Steaming Setup
- Use a large deep pan or kadai with a tight-fitting lid.
- Place a small stand, ring, or bowl at the bottom to elevate the cake tin.
- Pour about 1 to 1½ cups of water into the pan and bring it to a gentle boil. Keep it simmering while you prepare the cake tin.
Step 4: Prepare the Cake Tin
- Grease a small cake tin or steel container with oil or butter.
- (Optional) Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Just before pouring the batter, add 1 sachet of Eno to the batter. Stir gently in one direction and immediately pour it into the prepared cake tin. This helps the cake rise and stay soft.
Step 5: Steam the Cake
- Carefully place the cake tin on the stand inside the pan or kadai.
- Cover tightly — if using a glass lid, wrap it with a clean kitchen towel to prevent steam from dripping onto the cake.
- Steam on medium heat for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the lid and let the cake rest for 10–15 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely before unmolding.
- Slice and enjoy your soft, chocolatey, sugar-free delight!
Serve warm with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or peanut butter for extra indulgence. Pair with evening tea or coffee for a healthy, satisfying treat.
Tips –
- Don’t open the lid for at least the first 25 minutes while steaming — it can stop the cake from rising properly.
- You can also steam this cake in an idli cooker or pressure cooker (without the whistle/weight).
- For a richer flavor, sprinkle extra choco chips or nuts on top before steaming.
- Storage: Keeps well for up to 2 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Vegan Option: Replace milk with almond or oat milk.
