Williamsburg Tea Bread
Williamsburg Tea Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf combining sweet dates and crunchy pecans, infused with vanilla and a hint of salt. Baked to perfection with a tender crumb, it's ideal for teatime or as a comforting snack, appealing to those who enjoy rich, nutty desserts with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set oven at 300°F (150°C).
- Beat eggs and sugar together until creamy.
- Add flour, salt, and baking powder to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Stir in dates, chopped pecans, and vanilla by hand until evenly combined.
- Spoon the batter into a greased 9 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/4-inch loaf pan.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake on the middle shelf for 1 1/2 hours.
- Increase oven temperature to 325°F (160°C), remove foil, and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven, turn out onto a wire rack, and cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try substituting the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. For a sweeter touch, consider using Medjool dates as they are softer and sweeter. Ensure to beat the eggs and sugar until creamy to achieve a light texture. If the batter seems too thick, a splash of milk can be added for better consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This tea bread pairs beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or coffee, making it a great addition to brunch or afternoon tea. It can also be served alongside a light salad or with a spread of butter or cream cheese. For a delightful twist, try it with Sweet And Sour Dressing For Cabbage Slaw to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Williamsburg Tea Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Williamsburg Tea Bread contains roughly 264 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference. Each nut will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Williamsburg Tea Bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you use is suitable for baking, as this will help maintain the texture and structure of the bread.
Can I add other fruits to the tea bread?
Certainly! You can add dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too much liquid can affect the consistency of the batter.
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).