Grandma Elizabeth'S Date Nut Bread
Grandma Elizabeth's Date Nut Bread offers a moist, flavorful treat with sweet dates and crunchy pecans, perfect for breakfast, tea, or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop dates and add boiling water, baking soda, and margarine (butter).
- Let the mixture stand until cooled.
- Beat the egg and add brown sugar.
- Add the cooled date mixture, flour, chopped nuts, salt, and vanilla.
- Pour the batter into two greased loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until tested done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with applesauce. Make sure to chop the dates finely for better distribution in the bread. If you like a hint of spice, adding a teaspoon of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste. This recipe can also be made with different nuts, like walnuts, for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Grandma Elizabeth's Date Nut Bread warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful brunch spread, consider serving it alongside Spinach-Artichoke Bake or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover Date Nut Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Elizabeth'S Date Nut Bread contains roughly 1323 calories, with 17g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1135mg per serving (49% 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 dates with other dried fruits like figs or raisins. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile. If using a fruit that is less sweet than dates, you may need to adjust the sugar content accordingly to maintain the desired sweetness in the bread.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Date Nut Bread, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure the baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but it should still turn out deliciously moist and flavorful.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To test if your Date Nut Bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If it comes out wet with batter, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically to avoid overbaking.
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).