Mom'S Date Nut Bread
Mom's Date Nut Bread is a delightful blend of sweet, chewy dates and crunchy nuts, creating a comforting loaf perfect for breakfast or a snack. The rich flavors of vanilla and a hint of salt elevate the sweetness, making it a favorite for family gatherings or cozy afternoons with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over dates and baking soda.
- Add the rest of the ingredients.
- Bake at 350° for 60 to 70 minutes in a greased loaf pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or pecans work well as substitutes. To ensure the dates are soft, let them soak in the boiling water for a minimum of 10 minutes before mixing. This bread can also be enhanced with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, sliced with a pat of butter for a comforting snack or breakfast option. This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful twist, enjoy it alongside a light salad like Quick And Easy Caesar Salad for a balanced meal or as a sweet finish to dinner. It also makes a wonderful gift when wrapped in parchment paper.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast it lightly for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Date Nut Bread contains roughly 436 calories, with 6g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1313mg per serving (57% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for nuts, you can easily swap them for your favorite variety. Walnuts and pecans are popular choices due to their rich flavor and crunchiness. Just ensure that any nuts you use are chopped for even distribution throughout the bread.
What can I do if I don't have pitted dates?
If you can't find pitted dates, you can buy whole dates and simply remove the pits yourself. Alternatively, you could use dried figs or prunes as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Soak them in boiling water just as you would the dates to soften them up before using.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version of this date nut bread, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar by using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using egg whites instead of whole eggs can lower the fat content while still providing structure.
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).