Blender Orange Date Bread
A moist and flavorful orange date bread with a hint of nuttiness, perfect for breakfast or teatime. The blend of fresh orange, sweet dates, and optional nuts creates a delightful, wholesome treat that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese topping. Ideal for those who enjoy fruity, citrus-infused baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and soda in a bowl.
- Add the nuts if using.
- In a blender, combine the egg, milk, unpeeled orange cut in eighths, dates, shortening, and sugar.
- Blend well until smooth.
- Add the blended mixture to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool before slicing; it tastes better the next day.
- Serve with cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar and orange juice to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on the traditional flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon to the batter. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute. You can also experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture. Make sure to chop the dates for even distribution throughout the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This orange date bread pairs beautifully with cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar and orange juice, creating a delightful spread. It can also be served alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tea for a lovely breakfast or afternoon snack. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with Cheese Fried Cube Steak for a savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 the microwave for a few seconds or toast for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blender Orange Date Bread contains roughly 521 calories, with 8g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and potassium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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 dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with dried fruits like raisins or chopped dried apricots. Keep in mind that this may alter the sweetness and texture slightly, so adjust sugar levels accordingly. Experimenting with different dried fruits can lead to delicious variations of this bread.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The texture might differ slightly, but it should still yield a tasty loaf.
How can I make the bread more moist?
To enhance the moisture of the bread, you can add an extra tablespoon of milk or include a mashed banana or applesauce in the batter. Both options will contribute to a softer texture while maintaining the delightful flavor of the orange and dates.
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).