-
1
Begin by starting the filling.
-
2
Place the dates and water in a large saucepan over low heat and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the dates are quite soft.
-
3
Be sure the liquid does not completely evaporate.
-
4
While the dates cook, begin making the frosting.
-
5
In a double boiler or using a metal bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chocolate with the coconut oil.
-
6
When all the chocolate has melted, whisk in the water, vanilla, and salt.
-
7
Refrigerate the frosting for 1 hour, taking it out and whisking occasionally.
-
8
While the frosting sets, make the cake.
-
9
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans.
-
10
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the canola oil, coconut milk, vanilla, maple syrup, and bananas.
-
11
In a separate bowl, combine the brown rice flour, baking soda, and salt.
-
12
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing thoroughly.
-
13
Divide batter equally between the two cake pans.
-
14
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cakes spring back when you press the center with your finger and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
-
15
Allow the cakes to cool completely before removing from the pan and assembling.
-
16
While the cakes cool, finish making the filling.
-
17
Drain the dates and pulse in a food processor until they have a smooth consistency.
-
18
Transfer the date paste to a separate bowl, clean the processor, and add the pecans and salt.
-
19
Pulse until a creamy nut butter forms.
-
20
To assemble, place one cake layer on a platter and using a cake spatula or butter knife, spread the pecan butter on it.
-
21
Atop the pecan butter spread about 1 cup of the date paste.
-
22
Place the second cake layer atop the first and spread the remaining date paste on it.
-
23
Finally, spread the chocolate frosting over the date filling; cover the sides of the cake as well.
-
24
(If the frosting has become too solid after refrigeration, try spreading it with a heated knife, or heat frosting slightly and whip in a stand mixer until it is spreadable.)
-
25
For an extra-nice presentation, place pecan halves in a circle around the top of the cake.
