I wanted to try this recipe because it is similar to a cake my late grandma used to make when we were kids. I made it for a get-together with some friends. I took the advice of another reviewer and paired it with some good vanilla ice cream. I normally don't care for cake and ice cream together, but this combination is heavenly! Everything about this cake is good, and the crunchy sugar on top is a real plus, too. Everyone seemed to really like the cake. The main difference between this cake and my grandmother's is that this one had more chocolate chips. My adult daughter had a piece of the leftovers and she thought there were too many chocolate chips on it, so that is something to consider. The only things I did different from the recipe are that I used 1 cup of pecans, instead of 1/2 cup, and I may have inadvertently added a little less flour than what is recommended (but I think that may have worked in my favor because the cake was extra moist). This is a great cake and if you do have leftovers, try heating a piece up in the microwave for 15 seconds or so~ yum!

Great recipe...I actually put a healthier twist on this recipe and used whole wheat flour (adjusted qty) and used Splenda baking mix. Turned out very moist for a whole wheat base, probably due to the dates. At least a 4 star recipe!

Yummyyyy. This is a wonderful cake. I didnt have pecans so I added cashew nuts. Yet it was so great. Surely I will make it again and again. Thanks for the recipe and thanks for the reviews. They helped me a lot too.

If it was possible I would give this reliable and wonderful recipe 6 stars. It is also versatile in that I have used 2 tbls. of rum in place of some of the water. After the cake sits for a day the flavor is great. I often serve it hot (reheat in microwave) with icecream running down the sides. Everyone seems to love it and a pleasant change from rich icings.

My mother made this when I was growing up and I have been making it for years. It always turns out great and everyone always loves it. The dates 'disappear' into the cake and friends are always surprised when I tell them it's a date cake.