Coffee Date Loaf
Coffee Date Loaf offers a moist, flavorful treat with hints of coffee and sweetness from dates and sugar. The crunchy nuts add texture, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or coffee breaks. Its rich aroma and balanced flavors appeal to those who enjoy hearty, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a loaf pan.
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, instant coffee, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Add chopped nuts and snipped dates to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with buttermilk and oil.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the overall flavor. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with chocolate chips for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Coffee Date Loaf is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Serve it with a dollop of cream cheese or a spread of butter for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert option, consider serving it alongside a scoop of Lucille'S Homemade Ice Cream to create a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Coffee Date Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster oven for a few minutes or microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coffee Date Loaf contains roughly 258 calories, with 3g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1892mg per serving (82% 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 regular coffee instead of instant coffee?
While you can use brewed coffee in place of instant coffee, it may alter the moisture content of the batter. If you choose to use brewed coffee, reduce the buttermilk slightly to keep the batter from becoming too wet. Instant coffee is recommended for a concentrated flavor without changing the consistency.
What can I substitute for chopped nuts?
If you prefer not to use chopped nuts, you can swap them out for seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added texture. Alternatively, you can replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
To check if the Coffee Date Loaf is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, then check again.
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).