Date Nut Tiffin Loaf
A rich, nutty date loaf with a tender crumb, perfect for tea or snack time, combining sweet dates and crunchy nuts for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Add chopped dates and mix with fingers until well coated.
- Add beaten egg yolks and vanilla, then blend with fingers.
- Gently fold in stiffly beaten egg whites until just combined.
- Brush a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan with butter and lightly flour it.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with your hand.
- Cover the pan tightly with foil and fold the foil over the edges.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, increase the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C), and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is faintly brown and tests done.
- Remove from oven, let it sit in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Loosen the edges with a dull knife and turn the loaf upside down onto a rack covered with wax paper.
- Allow the crust to soften as the cake ages.
- Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and store in a tin box with a lid or freeze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using light brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you want a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped uniformly for even distribution. If you prefer a moister loaf, consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is delightful served plain or with a spread of cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon. Consider serving it alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert option. For a heartier meal, serve it as part of a brunch spread with dishes like Tomato-Bread Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
To store the Date Nut Tiffin Loaf, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a tin box with a lid to keep it fresh. The loaf can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it thaw at room temperature or warm it gently in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Nut Tiffin Loaf contains roughly 574 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% 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 nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or any other nuts you prefer. Just be sure to chop them roughly so they mix well with the batter. Additionally, you can also experiment with nut blends for added texture and flavor.
What can I do if my loaf is too dry?
If your Date Nut Tiffin Loaf turns out dry, you can serve it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to add moisture. Alternatively, try warming individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to make them softer before serving.
How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?
To test if the loaf is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The top should also be a light golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).