Step 1: Prepare the Dates Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Place the chopped dates in a medium bowl, add the baking soda, then pour the boiling water over them. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for 15-20 minutes while the dates soften and absorb the liquid. The mixture will look thick and slightly darker.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients While the dates are soaking, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this aside – having your dry ingredients ready to go makes the process much smoother.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air and creates a tender crumb, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. The mixture might look slightly curdled at first, but that’s completely normal. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything Mash the date mixture slightly with a fork (it doesn’t need to be smooth – some chunks are perfect). Add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula. Add half of the date mixture, then repeat with the remaining flour and dates. Fold everything together until just combined – don’t overmix, as this can make the cake tough. If using nuts, fold them in now.

Step 6: Bake Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 7: Cool and Serve Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift it onto a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite toppings.

Step 8: Make Optional Toffee Sauce (If Desired) Combine butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until melted. Add cream and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. Drizzle warm over cake slices.