Irresistible Date & Walnut Loaf Recipe: Bake Your Perfect Slice Of Heaven

In a world where culinary experiences are cherished not just for nourishment but also for the joy and nostalgia they bring, homemade bread recipes stand out as timeless treasures. Enter the Date & Walnut Loaf, a delightful bake that promises to take your taste buds on a journey of sweet indulgence and robust nuttiness. This isn't just bread; it's an experience wrapped in warmth and served with love.

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Why This Recipe? 🥜

The Date & Walnut Loaf combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich texture of walnuts, creating a loaf that's both moist and flavorful. Here are some reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

• Health Benefits: Dates are known for their high fiber content, vitamins, and minerals, while walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein.
• Versatility: Enjoy this loaf as a breakfast treat, a hearty snack, or a dessert. It's perfect with tea or coffee, or toasted with a spread of butter.
• Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires basic baking skills, making it approachable for both novice and experienced bakers.

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Ingredients Needed 🍞

Before you start, let's gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of dates, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 ¾ cups of self-raising flour
• ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup of brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• ½ cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• A pinch of salt

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Preparation Steps 🥄

Here’s how to bring your Date & Walnut Loaf to life:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.

2. Melt Butter: In a small pan over low heat, melt the butter. Let it cool slightly.

3. Date & Nut Preparation: Place the dates and baking soda in a bowl, pour boiling water over them (just to cover), and let them sit for 15 minutes. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the liquid.

4. Mixing:

   • Beat the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until creamy.
   • Add the melted butter and mix well.
   • Sift in the flour, add the milk, salt, and the reserved liquid. Fold in the dates and walnuts gently.

5. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Smooth the top and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Cooling: Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

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Serving Suggestions 🍽️

• Fresh: Serve the loaf sliced, fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, with a smear of butter.
• Toasted: For a different texture and flavor, toast slices of the loaf and pair with jam or cheese.
• Dessert: Top with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.

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<p class="pro-note">🎂 Note: This loaf freezes well. Simply wrap it tightly once cooled and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven.</p>

Conclusion

The Date & Walnut Loaf is not just about baking; it's about creating moments of happiness with each slice. Whether you're hosting, giving, or simply treating yourself, this loaf adds a touch of homemade warmth to any occasion. Its texture, the delicate interplay of flavors, and its nutritional profile make it a perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Next time you’re looking to impress or indulge, let this loaf be your canvas of culinary delight.

Now, go ahead and bake your slice of heaven!

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, but remember to add baking powder (2 tsp per cup of whole wheat flour) to ensure the loaf rises properly.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What can I substitute for walnuts if there are allergies in the family?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can try using sunflower seeds or dried cranberries for a different yet delicious taste and texture.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I make this recipe vegan?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Use plant-based milk, a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg), and substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>