Litha Nut Cake with Honey Syrup
From: Celestial Seasons
3 cups flour
3 Tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 cup chopped cashews
1 cup dried dates, minced
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
For the syrup:
1 1/2 cups honey
1/2 cup water
Juice of 1 small lemon
1/2 tsp grated lemon
Making the nut cake:
The way to make the cake is to mix it on a board, using your hands, but you can also mix the ingredients together in a bowl. Either way, you first combine the dry ingredients. Make a mound with a well in the center. Pour the oil and water slowly into the well, then mix again. Knead the dough for about a minute; don't knead too long or the texture of the cakes will be gluey. Grease a 9" pan with oil. Press the dough gently into the pan. Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree oven for one hour. Remove, and allow to cool.
Making the honey syrup:
Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Allow the liquid to reduce by 1/4.
Next, place the cooled nut cake onto a shallow plate or serving tray. With a fork, make small holes over the top of the cake. Slowly pour the warm syrup over the cake, and allow to sit for one hour. Serve with strong coffee, and enjoy!