June'S Date Tea Loaf
A moist, flavorful date tea loaf with crunchy nuts and a hint of orange, perfect for teatime or as a sweet treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour boiling water over chopped dates and let cool.
- Cream shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy; beat in the egg.
- Add baking soda to the cooled date mixture and stir.
- Add flour, salt, and cool water to the creamed mixture and beat until smooth.
- Stir in the cooled date mixture and continue beating until well combined.
- Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Loosen the sides of the loaf and cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Wrap the loaf securely in foil.
- Serve with whipped cream cheese flavored with a small amount of orange juice and a dash of orange flavoring.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans. Make sure to let the loaf cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
This date tea loaf pairs beautifully with whipped cream cheese flavored with orange juice, which adds a delightful contrast. Serve it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. For a more indulgent option, consider serving slices with a side of Microwave Fast Chocolate-Pecan Fudge for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of June'S Date Tea Loaf contains roughly 912 calories, with 11g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1677mg per serving (73% 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 chopped dried fruits like figs, apricots, or raisins for the dates. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and moisture content may vary, so adjust the sugar or liquid accordingly.
Is it necessary to use Crisco shortening?
While Crisco shortening provides a nice texture, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or a plant-based margarine if desired. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the flavor and moisture of the loaf.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make this loaf gluten-free. Ensure that your baking soda is also gluten-free, and keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
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).