Method

1. Place the date and 1 cup (250ml) water in a saucepan. Bring to the boil over low heat. Stir in the bicarbonate of soda. Transfer to a bowl and set aside to cool to room temperature.
2. Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease a 20cm round cake pan and line the base with baking paper.
3. Process date mixture, maple syrup, oil, avocado, eggs and vanilla in a food processor until the mixture is smooth. Sift the flour, cocoa powder and salt into a large bowl. Add the avocado mixture and milk. Fold until just combined. Transfer to the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
4. Bake for 50 mins or until a skewer inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean. Set aside in the pan for 10 mins before turning onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. To make the avocado frosting, place the avocado, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla and salt in a food processor and process until combined and smooth. Spread over the top of the cake. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes, if desired. Cut into wedges to serve.