Pat Ackerman'S Date-Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful date-nut bread with sweet dates and crunchy nuts, perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a wholesome snack for nut lovers and bread enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped dates in boiling water, covered, until partially soft, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the dates, reserving 1 1/2 cups of the boiling water for the batter.
- Mix shortening, sugar, egg, vanilla, and salt together using a whisk.
- Add sifted flour to the mixture alternately with the reserved boiling water from the dates, mixing well after each addition.
- Dissolve the soda in 1 teaspoon of water and stir into the batter.
- Fold in the chopped dates and nuts.
- Line the bottoms of greased loaf pans with waxed paper and pour in the batter.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. Ensure you're using fresh dates for the best texture and sweetness. If you're looking to add a twist, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Always sift your flour to avoid lumps and achieve a lighter bread.
Serving Suggestions
Date-Nut Bread is delightful on its own, but it can also be served with cream cheese spread for added richness. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Janis' Orange-Pineapple Jello Salad as part of a brunch spread. It also makes a wonderful gift wrapped in decorative paper.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 refrigerate for up to one week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it gently in a toaster or oven at low heat, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat Ackerman'S Date-Nut Bread contains roughly 433 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), iron (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chopped nuts, you can easily swap them for your favorites, such as walnuts or pecans. Each type of nut will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the bread, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this Date-Nut Bread vegan by substituting the egg with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Additionally, use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil in place of the shortening. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The best way to check if your Date-Nut Bread is done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
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).