Super Date Nut Bread
A moist, sweet bread packed with dates and nuts, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering rich flavors and a delightful texture for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the pitted dates in a bowl and sprinkle with baking soda.
- Pour boiling water over the dates and let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
- Drain the dates, reserving the soaking water, and mash or chop them finely.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the sugar, stirring until combined.
- Add the beaten egg and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Combine the sifted flour and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped dates.
- Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
- Bake at 325°F for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have pitted dates, you can substitute with dried figs or prunes, but adjust the sweetness accordingly. Ensure the dates are finely chopped to integrate well into the batter. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture. Don't overmix the batter to keep the bread light and airy.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a spread of cream cheese or butter. Serve it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack. For a more festive touch, consider serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a fresh fruit salad like Rosa Marina Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Super Date Nut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to bring back its fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Date Nut Bread contains roughly 866 calories, with 10g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze Super Date Nut Bread?
Yes, you can freeze Super Date Nut Bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
What can I use instead of butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will still give the bread a nice moisture and richness. Just make sure any substitute you choose is melted before adding it to the mixture.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version of Super Date Nut Bread, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Additionally, reducing the sugar by a third or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup can also help. Adding seeds or nuts can enhance the nutritional profile.
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).