Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch loaf pan or cake tin.
Step 2: Place the chopped dates and baking soda in a bowl, pour the boiling water over them, and let sit for 10 minutes until soft.
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the date walnut cake with orange blossom syrup recipe base is stable.
Step 5: Fold in the soaked date mixture (including the liquid) followed by the sifted flour and baking powder.
Step 6: Gently stir in the toasted walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by simmering granulated sugar and water for 5 minutes, then stir in the orange blossom water.
Step 9: Poke small holes across the top of the warm cake and pour the orange blossom syrup over it while still in the pan.
Step 10: Allow the date walnut cake with orange blossom syrup recipe to cool completely before slicing and serving.