Belgian Date Buns Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped dates

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until combined.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
7. Add the buttermilk and mix until combined.
8. Fold in the chopped dates.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 buns

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with margarine or coconut oil.
- Brown sugar: Can be substituted with white sugar.
- Buttermilk: Can be substituted with plain yogurt or milk.
- Dates: Can be substituted with raisins or dried cranberries.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or a simple glaze.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Let the buns cool completely before serving.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped dates, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk or milk to the batter.
- If the buns are too moist, add a tablespoon of flour to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Make sure the buns are cooked through before serving.

Food History:
Belgian date buns are a traditional treat that have been enjoyed for centuries.

Flavor Profiles:
Sweet and nutty with hints of vanilla and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Belgian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spiced, Caramelized, Rich