"Civil War" Or Date Loaf Bread
A rich, moist date loaf bread with a sweet and nutty flavor, perfect for dessert or tea time. The combination of dates, nuts, and vanilla creates a comforting treat suited for family gatherings or cozy afternoons, offering a nostalgic taste of classic American baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the dates, boiling water, soda, salt, and butter in a bowl and let cool.
- Add the beaten egg, sugar, flour, vanilla, and nuts to the cooled mixture.
- Beat well until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until done in the center.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of dates, finely chopped prunes can serve as a substitute. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and let the batter sit for about 10 minutes before baking for a better texture. This loaf can also be made with walnuts for a delightful crunch, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This date loaf is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a spread of cream cheese or butter. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Honey Thyme Vegetables for a satisfying brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date loaf bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Civil War" Or Date Loaf Bread contains roughly 344 calories, with 6g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 955mg per serving (42% 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 dried fruits in place of dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits like apricots or figs, but keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness will vary. Just chop them finely and adjust the sugar in the recipe as needed to maintain the desired sweetness.
What should I do if my loaf is too dry?
If your loaf turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes early. To remedy a dry loaf, you can serve it with a drizzle of honey or a side of yogurt to add moisture and enhance flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This date loaf freezes well. Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving, and it will taste freshly baked.
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).