Date loaf
Date loaf is a moist and flavorful tea-time treat that combines sweet dates with rich brown sugar and vanilla. This easy recipe results in a delightful loaf perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 cup dates1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
2 cups self-raising flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp vanilla extract
Date loaf is a classic, moist, and delicious tea-time treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavors of brown sugar and vanilla. This recipe is simple yet flavorful, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or to share with friends and family.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates with 1 cup of boiling water. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes. This will help soften the dates.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and baking soda. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture and mix well.
- Once the dates have softened, add them (including the soaking water) to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy your date loaf plain, or with a spread of butter or cream cheese if desired.
With its rich flavors and moist texture, this date loaf is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a tea-time snack, or a comforting dessert, this loaf is both versatile and delicious. Follow the tips provided to achieve the best results, and enjoy every slice!
Date loaf FAQ:
Bake the date loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes. It's ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Store any leftover date loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with all-purpose flour by adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder for each cup of flour used. Adjust the baking soda in the recipe as needed.
The date loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Additionally, the loaf should spring back slightly when lightly pressed on top.
Use pitted Medjool or Deglet Noor dates for their natural sweetness and moist texture, as they blend well in the loaf.
Cooking Tips:
- Chop the dates into small pieces for even distribution throughout the loaf.
- Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Sift the self-raising flour to avoid lumps and to incorporate air for a lighter loaf.
- Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well to prevent the loaf from sticking.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and to let the flavors develop fully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
8 ServingsCalories 350kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 2.62g
Sugar 40g
Fat 6g
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