Healthful Date Bread
Healthful Date Bread is a moist, naturally sweet loaf packed with dates, raisins, and chopped almonds. Its wholesome whole wheat flour base makes it a nutritious choice for breakfast or snack time, appealing to those seeking a tasty, fiber-rich treat with a hint of natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the pitted dates and raisins.
- Pour boiling water over the mixture and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Add the slightly beaten egg whites and vanilla to the cooled fruit mixture and mix well.
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Stir in the chopped almonds.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter bread, consider adding a mashed banana or applesauce to the mixture. If you don’t have whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour can be used, but the bread may lack the nutty flavor. For a nut-free version, you can substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds. Make sure to adjust the baking time if using a larger or smaller loaf pan.
Serving Suggestions
This healthful date bread is delicious on its own or served with a spread of almond butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. For a delightful twist, serve it with a side of fresh fruit or browse more vegetarian recipes for complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover date bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, which can extend its freshness for about a week. You can reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Healthful Date Bread contains roughly 429 calories, with 8g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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 and raisins?
Yes, you can substitute dates and raisins with other dried fruits like figs, cranberries, or apricots. Just ensure to chop them into similar sizes to maintain even baking. Adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose, as some may be sweeter than others.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up. This helps achieve a better consistency for pouring into the loaf pan. Be careful not to add too much liquid; it’s best to start with a little and mix well.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by replacing the egg whites with a flaxseed egg. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together just like the egg whites.
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).