Sticky Date & Ginger Cake with Coconut Caramel Topping

1. 1

   Step 1: Prepare the dates

   Simmer dates, boiling water and baking soda in a saucepan over low heat until soft. Remove from heat.

2. 2

   Step 2: Add butter

   Add butter and stir until melted.

3. 3

   Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

   Add sugar and egg, stir until combined.

4. 4

   Step 4: Add dry ingredients and ginger

   Add flour, grated ginger, and baking powder, gently stir until combined.

5. 5

   Step 5: Prepare the cake tin

   Pour the mixture into a lined 8-inch cake tin and arrange sliced pears on top.

6. 6

   Step 6: First bake

   40 min

   Bake for 40 minutes at 170°C.

For the coconut topping

1. 7

   Step 7: Make the coconut topping

   When the cake is 5 minutes from being cooked, add shredded coconut, brown sugar, milk, and butter to a saucepan over low heat until melted and combined.

Assembly

1. 8

   Step 8: Add topping and second bake

   10 min

   Remove the cake from the oven and spread the coconut topping evenly on top. Return to the oven for 10 minutes or until golden brown.