Date And Nut Loaf
A moist and flavorful date and nut loaf with a soft texture and rich taste. The combination of chopped dates and walnuts provides a delightful sweetness and crunch, making it perfect for teatime or as a sweet snack. Its hearty nature suits both casual and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, sprinkle the baking soda over the boiling water. Cool the mixture.
- Add the sugar and egg; beat well.
- Add the flour, baking powder, chopped dates, vanilla, salt, and chopped walnuts to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Date and Nut Loaf, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds if desired. For a sweeter loaf, try adding a bit more sugar or incorporating a splash of maple syrup. Ensure the baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
Serving Suggestions
This Date and Nut Loaf makes a delightful dessert or snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving it with a dollop of cream cheese or a slice of Cucumber Spread for a savory contrast. It also complements a Simple Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Date and Nut Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or microwave briefly for a soft texture and enhanced flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date And Nut Loaf contains roughly 323 calories, with 6g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1355mg per serving (59% 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 chopped dried apricots, figs, or raisins for the dates. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still yield a delicious loaf. Just make sure to chop the fruits into similar sizes for even baking.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help maintain the loaf's structure. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?
The Date and Nut Loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. It should also be golden brown on top. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during baking.
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).