Georgia Brown Bread
Georgia Brown Bread is a rich, moist, and flavorful treat featuring dates and vanilla, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, dense breads with a hint of fruitiness. Its hearty texture and deep flavor make it ideal for breakfast, snack, or dessert, appealing to bread lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the dates and sprinkle baking soda over them.
- Pour boiling water over the dates and let stand until cool.
- Cream butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs and vanilla, and beat well.
- Combine flour and salt, then gradually add to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the cooled date mixture.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using light brown sugar instead of white. If you're out of dates, you can substitute with chopped prunes or dried figs. Ensure the water is boiling when poured over the dates to help soften them effectively. Mixing the cooled date mixture thoroughly with the batter will enhance the overall texture of the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delightful served warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a comforting bowl of Corn Kalasky Soup, enhancing the overall experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Georgia Brown Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through, maintaining its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Georgia Brown Bread contains roughly 1327 calories, with 30g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour to add more nutrients and a nuttier flavor. However, keep in mind that the texture may be denser, so it’s best to experiment with the ratios based on your preference.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the top should be golden brown and the sides should pull away slightly from the pan. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil.
Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch and enhanced flavor. You can fold in about 1 cup of chopped nuts into the batter along with the date mixture. Just be mindful of the overall moisture, as nuts can absorb some of it.
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).