Set a cooker on low-medium heat and spread a layer of salt at the bottom of the cooker. Place a small stand in the center and close the lid of the cooker. Let it preheat for about 10 mins.
Now, heat ½ cup milk well and pour it over the pitted dates. Cover the bowl with a plate and set it aside for 10-15 mins. This will soften the dates and help in easy blending.
Once the dates are softened, transfer it along with milk in a blender jar and blend until no lumps remain.
Transfer the mixture back into a bowl. Add 1 cup milk and oil to it.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and baking soda into the mixture and whisk well till no flour pockets remain and a smooth batter is formed.
Pour this batter into a greased and lined 6 inch round pan. Arrange the chopped walnuts on top of the cake batter in an evenly fashion.
Open the lid of the cooker and place the round pan carefully on the stand. Close the lid and bake the dates and walnut cake for 35-40 mins or till a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Recipe by Bake with Shivesh at https://bakewithshivesh.com/dates-chocolate-cake-in-cooker/