Date Cherry Loaf
A moist, flavorful date cherry loaf combining sweet dates and tangy cherries, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, nostalgic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped dates, drained and halved maraschino cherries, cherry juice mixed with boiling water, and baking soda. Set aside.
- Cream together brown sugar, shortening, egg, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour and the date and cherry mixture alternately to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Line a loaf pan with waxed paper and pour the batter into it.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you don't have cherry juice, you can substitute it with apple juice or a mix of water and a bit of cherry syrup from the maraschino cherries. Ensure your dates are soft and moist; if they're dry, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Serving Suggestions
This Date Cherry Loaf is delightful on its own but also pairs beautifully with Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream for a sweet contrast. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. For an added touch, drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and cherry juice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Date Cherry 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 microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy cold with a spread of butter.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Cherry Loaf contains roughly 850 calories, with 6g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% 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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you'll need to pit and chop them. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may alter the moisture content slightly, so you might want to adjust the cherry juice accordingly.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If using butter, the loaf may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Date Cherry Loaf gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients, especially baking soda, are gluten-free to keep the loaf safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).