Are you craving a deliciously moist and naturally sweet bread that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This date bread recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned cooks alike. It's a fantastic way to use up those Medjool dates you have lying around, resulting in a healthy and incredibly satisfying treat. This easy recipe is also a perfect quick dinner idea alongside a bowl of soup or a simple salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, roughly chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option - see tips)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or less, to taste, depending on date sweetness)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Place the chopped Medjool dates in a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes, or until softened. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly moist texture.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs (or flax eggs), and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Blend the Dates
Once the dates have softened, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash them until smooth. You can leave some small pieces for added texture if desired. Add the mashed dates to the wet ingredient mixture and stir well.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the nuts (if using).
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the date bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious homemade date bread!
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Spice it up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Chocolate Chunk Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the date mixture before adding sugar. The sweetness of dates varies, so you may need less or more sugar depending on your preference.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Fiber: 2-3g
This date bread recipe is a wonderful addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, creating a delicious dish effortlessly. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas or a delightful dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!