Banana, Date And Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful banana bread studded with dates and nuts, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to fruit and nut lovers seeking a hearty treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter, sugar, and eggs together, then add mashed bananas.
- Add flour and baking soda; mix well, then fold in chopped dates and nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white. If you have no nuts on hand, you can substitute with seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure your bananas are overripe for the best sweetness. If you prefer a lighter version, use applesauce in place of half the butter. This recipe also adapts well for muffins; simply reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this banana, date, and nut bread warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Litely Sweeten Bread Pudding for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover banana, date, and nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the bread in the fridge overnight and warm individual slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana, Date And Nut Bread contains roughly 811 calories, with 11g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 703mg per serving (31% 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 fruits instead of bananas?
While bananas are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like applesauce or pureed pumpkin for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that using different fruits may alter the moisture content, so adjust the flour accordingly.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or add a teaspoon of it to help with the bread's structure. This adaptation will keep the delightful flavor while accommodating gluten-free diets.
How can I make this bread more flavorful?
For added depth, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also add vanilla extract or a splash of rum for a unique flavor profile. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, try incorporating toasted coconut flakes or dark chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
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).