Banana date loaf

This banana date loaf pairs the natural sweetness of dates with ripe bananas, baked to a moist perfection. It's an ideal treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

21 Jan 2026
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 cups self-raising flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup dates
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup milk (1% fat)
2 eggs
2 bananas
Banana date loaf

Banana date loaf is a delightful and nutritious treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of ripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this loaf is both moist and flavorful, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a sweet, yet wholesome baked good. Follow these tips to ensure your banana date loaf turns out perfectly every time.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking soda, and ground nutmeg. Stir to combine evenly.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, lightly beaten eggs, and mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Dates and Sugar:
- Add the chopped dates and sugar to the flour mixture. Toss to coat the dates with flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
5. Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it's okay if there are small lumps.
6. Transfer to Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool:
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve:
- Once the loaf has cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious banana date loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious banana date loaf that's both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this loaf warm from the oven, or store it for a quick and tasty snack throughout the week. Happy baking!

Banana date loaf FAQ:

What size loaf pan is best for this recipe?

A standard 9x5 inch loaf pan is ideal for this Banana Date Loaf recipe. This size allows the loaf to bake evenly.

How do I know when the banana date loaf is done baking?

The loaf is done when a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking typically takes 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Can I substitute an ingredient in this loaf?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk. However, using self-raising flour is recommended for the best texture.

How should I store the banana date loaf?

Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for about a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for dates if I don't have any?

If you don't have dates, you can substitute with an equal amount of dried figs or raisins, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

Tips:

- Ensure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

- Chop the dates into small pieces to distribute them evenly throughout the loaf.

- Mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately before combining them to avoid over-mixing.

- If your batter seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach the desired consistency.

- Preheat your oven to the correct temperature to ensure even baking.

- Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well to prevent sticking.

- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.

Nutrition per serving

12 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 2.18g
Sugar 20g
Fat 1.73g

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