Good Neighbor Loaf
A moist, flavorful orange date bread with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snack. Its citrus and nutty notes make it a delightful treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a medium bowl, blend the wet ingredients: boiling water, grated orange rind, orange juice, chopped dates or raisins, sugar, melted butter or oil, vanilla, and the slightly beaten egg.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Cool the loaf on a wire rack, then wrap in wax paper.
- Store in a cake pan or bread box.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. If you don't have fresh orange juice, bottled juice can work in a pinch. You can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans for the nuts, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped evenly for even distribution in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Good Neighbor Loaf with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for a delicious breakfast or snack. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert option, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a side of Chocolate-Blueberry Dessert Squares for a sweet treat.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the loaf tightly in wax paper, then place it in an airtight container or a cake pan. This will help maintain its moisture. For best results, consume within a week. If you want to reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Neighbor Loaf contains roughly 436 calories, with 6g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1725mg per serving (75% 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 a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may vary slightly. If you opt for a gluten-free blend, ensure it contains a binding agent for the best results.
What can I use if I don't have dates?
If you don't have dates, raisins or chopped dried apricots make excellent substitutes. You can also use a mix of dried fruits to add complexity to the flavor.
How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, the loaf is done. If it comes out sticky, continue baking for a few more minutes.
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).