Ada'S Date And Nut Bread
Ada's Date and Nut Bread is a moist, hearty loaf packed with sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and wholesome oats, perfect for breakfast or teatime enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the beaten egg and buttermilk in a mixing bowl.
- Add the brown sugar to the egg and buttermilk mixture and stir well.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt; then add this dry mixture all at once to the wet ingredients.
- Stir in the oatmeal, chopped dates, and chopped nuts until just combined.
- Fold in the melted shortening gently into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased and wax paper-lined loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For best flavor and moisture, let the bread sit for a day before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar, which can give a unique twist. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the aroma. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped evenly for consistent sweetness throughout the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a smear of cream cheese or butter for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date and Nut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ada'S Date And Nut Bread contains roughly 664 calories, with 7g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them roughly to maintain a good texture in the bread.
What can I do if I don't have buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before using it in the recipe.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This Date and Nut Bread freezes well. Just ensure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).