Coffee-Time Gems
Coffee-Time Gems are moist, flavorful sweet bread with a hint of coffee and chewy dates, perfect for coffee breaks or teatimes, appealing to those who enjoy rich, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly stir together the flour, baking powder, soda, salt, and brown sugar.
- Combine the beaten egg, sour cream, milk, melted margarine, and coffee granules.
- Add the liquid ingredients all at once to the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the chopped pitted dates.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules. If you don't have sour cream, plain yogurt can be a suitable substitute. Ensure your dates are pitted and chopped evenly for consistent sweetness throughout the gems. Mixing the dry and wet ingredients just until combined will help keep the texture light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
These Coffee-Time Gems are best served warm, allowing the flavors to shine. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. They make a great breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a special touch, serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds, or warm them in a toaster oven to maintain their texture. They are best enjoyed fresh but can still be delightful after storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coffee-Time Gems contains roughly 213 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 a different type of sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or honey, though it may slightly alter the texture. If using liquid sweeteners like honey, reduce the amount of milk slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I substitute for the chopped dates?
If you don't have dates, you can use raisins or dried apricots as alternatives. Both will add a similar sweetness, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly. Make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution in the batter.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to help achieve the right texture. The baking powder should also be gluten-free, which most brands are.
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).