Aunt Harriet'S Thanksgiving Date Pudding
A moist, date-rich dessert with a nutty topping and a luscious date sauce, perfect for festive occasions and those who love sweet, fruit-based treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup of boiling water over half of the chopped dates and add the baking soda. Let this mixture stand while preparing the next ingredients.
- Sift together the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- Mix the sifted dry ingredients into the date, soda, and water mixture.
- Add the beaten egg, butter, and 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the mixture. Blend well.
- Spread the batter in a greased 10 x 15 x 1-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the sauce by mixing the remaining 1/2 pound of chopped dates, 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, and 2/3 cup of boiling water.
- Spread the date sauce over the hot cake after baking.
- Serve slices with whipped cream for a delightful finish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Medjool dates, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. If you don't have walnuts or pecans, you can substitute with almonds or even skip the nuts for a nut-free version. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients well to avoid any lumps in the batter. For a festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This date pudding pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also serve it alongside a light salad like Minted Baby Carrots for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving, or enjoy it plain for a comforting treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the pudding's moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Harriet'S Thanksgiving Date Pudding contains roughly 347 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 other types of dried fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits such as figs or apricots. Keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness will change, so adjust the sugar accordingly. Make sure to chop the fruits into similar sizes as the dates to ensure even cooking.
Is this pudding suitable for freezing?
Yes, this pudding can be frozen. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with the date pudding?
The date pudding is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with toppings. Serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A side of fresh fruit or a light salad like Minted Baby Carrots can complement the sweetness nicely.
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).