Surprise Date Bread
A moist, flavorful bread combining sweet dates, savory cheddar, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to cheese and date lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over dates; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Add the date mixture, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, vanilla, and chopped walnuts.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and cool on a rack.
- Serve sliced, optionally with softened cream cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using Medjool dates for their rich sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds. Ensure the cheddar cheese is freshly shredded for optimal melting. For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This bread also pairs beautifully with softened cream cheese, adding a creamy contrast to the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or spread with cream cheese. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. This bread also makes a lovely addition to brunch menus or holiday gatherings, complementing dishes like Sweet Potato And Pecan Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Surprise Date 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 in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or gently microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Date Bread contains roughly 540 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% 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 a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! While Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, Gruyère or Monterey Jack could work as well. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the bread's texture.
Can I freeze the Surprise Date Bread?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or warm it in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
What can I use as a substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This works well in many baking recipes, including this one, and is a great option for vegetarian recipes.
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).