Bette Dierolf'S Nut Loaf
A rich nut and date loaf with a moist texture, sweet flavor, and crunchy nuts—perfect for holiday gatherings, teatime, or as a hearty snack for nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Leave nuts and dates whole; do not chop.
- Drain maraschino cherries; add dates, cherries, and nuts to the mixture.
- Cook fruit and nut mixture with sifted flour.
- Beat eggs and add vanilla.
- Mix egg mixture with flour mixture, preferably using your hands.
- Spoon the mixture into three greased pans measuring 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
- Allow to cool and store for a while before slicing for better results.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider substituting pecans for the walnuts. Ensure the dates are fresh and moist for the best texture. If you prefer a less sweet loaf, reduce the sugar slightly. Mixing with your hands helps evenly distribute the ingredients without breaking the nuts. If you want to add a twist, incorporate some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
This nut loaf is delicious on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful brunch, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or browse more American recipes for complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the nut loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a month. When ready to serve, slice directly from the fridge for clean cuts, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bette Dierolf'S Nut Loaf contains roughly 932 calories, with 14g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! While walnuts and Brazil nuts are traditional, you can substitute with pecans or almonds. Just ensure that the total weight of nuts remains the same to maintain the loaf's structure.
How can I prevent the loaf from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure to grease the pans thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance. Let the loaf cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan.
Can I freeze the nut loaf?
Yes, this nut loaf freezes well! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
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).