Aunt Lorena'S Date Loaf Candy
A rich, chewy date and nut candy with caramel-like flavor, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, nutty treats with a nostalgic, homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, boil sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt until a little mixture forms a hard ball when dropped in cold water, about 250° on a candy thermometer.
- Stir occasionally to keep from scorching.
- Stir in chopped dates and cook until tender.
- Remove from heat and beat until cool and thick.
- Stir in chopped walnuts and vanilla.
- Pour half of the mixture onto a wet cloth and roll into a log shape.
- Repeat for the other half of the mixture.
- Store in the refrigerator; cut into slices to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the mixture. If you're out of walnuts, pecans or almonds can work as a great substitute. Ensure the dates are fresh and sticky for the best flavor. Stir the mixture consistently while cooking to prevent scorching, especially near the end when it thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the date loaf candy into bite-sized pieces for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack. For an extra touch, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of Pudding Sauce for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store the date loaf candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just slice it before freezing for easy access. To enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lorena'S Date Loaf Candy contains roughly 1889 calories, with 11g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 136g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1368mg per serving (59% 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 dried dates instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried dates for this recipe. Make sure to chop them finely and soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them before adding to the mixture. This will help them blend better and enhance the overall texture of the candy.
How do I know when the candy mixture is ready?
The candy mixture is ready when it reaches a temperature of about 250°F on a candy thermometer or when a small amount dropped into cold water forms a hard ball. Be sure to keep stirring to avoid scorching as it cooks.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like hazelnuts or macadamia nuts. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for additional flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
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).