Mom'S Date Loaf Delight
A rich, moist date loaf with warm spices and nutty crunch, perfect for cozy afternoons or teatime gatherings, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the pitted dates and add boiling water along with baking soda; set aside to cool, stirring occasionally.
- Cream together shortening, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
- Add the chopped nuts to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Sift together salt, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, and allspice; gradually stir into the creamed mixture.
- Alternate adding the cooled date mixture and the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, mixing gently after each addition.
- Line the bottom of a greased pan with waxed paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400° to 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce temperature to 250°F and bake for an additional hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you want a healthier version, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Make sure to chop the dates finely to ensure they blend well into the batter. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try adding walnuts or almonds as an alternative to the fine cut nuts.
Serving Suggestions
This date loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. For a more indulgent treat, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey. It also complements a cheese platter, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two weeks. To enjoy it warm, simply slice and microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Date Loaf Delight contains roughly 1068 calories, with 12g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pitted dates with other dried fruits such as prunes or figs. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, including baking soda and any added nuts.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary based on your oven, so start checking a bit earlier if you're unsure.
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).