Date Bread
Date Bread offers a moist, flavorful treat with the natural sweetness of dates and nutty undertones. Its warm, comforting aroma makes it perfect for breakfast or snacking, appealing to those who enjoy rich, fruity baked goods with a hint of crunch from the chopped nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped dates, butter, sugar, and boiling water in a bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients: brown sugar, chopped nut meats, baking powder, flour, and salt.
- Blend until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider soaking the dates in the boiling water for a few minutes before mixing. You can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you don't have brown sugar, mix white sugar with a bit of molasses to achieve a similar taste. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract can also enhance the sweetness and aroma of the bread.
Serving Suggestions
Date bread is delicious served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. For a delightful dessert, serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with Coconut-Orange Dressing for a tropical twist. It also makes a great addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date 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 the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave each slice for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Bread contains roughly 608 calories, with 8g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% 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 instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute dried figs, apricots, or raisins for the dates, though the flavor and texture will vary. Make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution in the bread. Each fruit will give the bread a unique sweetness, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
What can I do if my batter is too dry?
If your batter seems too dry, you can add a little more boiling water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. The batter should be moist but not runny. Ensure you measure flour accurately, as too much can lead to dryness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help the bread hold together. This will allow you to enjoy a delicious gluten-free date bread without sacrificing 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).