Winnie'S Date Nut Loaf Candy
A rich, chewy candy featuring dates, nuts, and caramelized sugar, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, nutty treats with a soft, fudgy texture. Ideal for gifting or indulging.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put sugar, salt, and canned milk in a saucepan. Cook until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Add chopped dates and bring to a boil again. Cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat. Add butter, nuts, and vanilla. Beat until the mixture is cool and thickened.
- Roll the mixture in a wet, soft cloth until firm. Slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute walnuts for the nuts if you prefer a different texture. Ensure you cook the mixture to the soft ball stage for the perfect consistency. A candy thermometer can help with accuracy. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy note.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the date nut loaf candy into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking. It pairs beautifully with Coffee Carnival, making for an indulgent afternoon treat. Consider serving it alongside a fruit platter or with Burgundy Onions as a savory contrast. This candy is also perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date nut loaf candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change, making it less enjoyable when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Winnie'S Date Nut Loaf Candy contains roughly 1308 calories, with 8g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 526mg per serving (23% 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 fresh dates instead of chopped dates?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but you may need to chop them finely and adjust the cooking time slightly. Fresh dates may require a bit more cooking to achieve the desired consistency, so keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks.
What if I don't have canned milk?
If you don't have canned milk, you can substitute it with evaporated milk or even whole milk. Just keep in mind that evaporated milk will yield a creamier texture, while whole milk may require a bit longer to cook down to the right consistency.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add coconut flakes or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the mixture, as it can affect the consistency. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavor 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).