Date And Walnut Loaf
A moist, flavorful date and walnut loaf with rich sweetness and crunch, perfect for teatime or as a dessert for those who enjoy hearty, nutty baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped dates, chopped walnuts, and shortening in a mixing bowl.
- Add boiling water and cold water to the mixture.
- Stir in brown sugar, well-beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the date mixture, mixing well.
- Pour the batter into a greased large loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until done.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the mixture. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different taste. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, increase the brown sugar by a few tablespoons. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of 'Joyful' Oat Bran Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of cream cheese or a spread of butter. Serve it alongside a warm beverage like tea or coffee for a cozy snack. For a complete breakfast, consider serving it with fresh fruit or a side of 'Swingin' Summer Salad' for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Date and Walnut 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 the loaf and warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date And Walnut Loaf contains roughly 807 calories, with 11g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% 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 types of nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds, depending on your preference. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the loaf.
Is it possible to make this loaf vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by replacing the egg with a flaxseed meal substitute or a store-bought egg replacer. Additionally, ensure that your shortening is plant-based or use coconut oil instead.
How can I make the loaf more moist?
To enhance the moisture of your Date and Walnut Loaf, consider adding a mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce to the batter. Additionally, reducing the amount of flour slightly can also help maintain a moist texture.
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).