Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the soaked dates, chopped walnuts, and chocolate chips.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
10. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60-70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
One loaf serves 8-10 people
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 420
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 63mg
Sodium: 260mg
Total Carbohydrates: 54g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Total Sugars: 33g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts instead of walnuts, such as pecans or almonds.
- You can use milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate chips.
Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Replace the chocolate chips with dried cranberries for a tangy twist.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the dates and walnuts into small pieces so that they distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Soaking the dates in boiling water with baking soda helps to soften them and create a caramel-like flavor.
- Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can also freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the loaf, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the loaf and place the slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the loaf with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the loaf for a decadent touch.
- Serve the slices with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or chocolate chips over the top of the loaf for added texture and flavor.
- Top each slice with a fresh raspberry or strawberry for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve the Date and Walnut Loaf with Chocolate Chips with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Pair it with a glass of red wine for a sophisticated dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the loaf with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a rich and indulgent dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the top of the loaf is browning too quickly, cover it with foil halfway through baking.
- If the loaf is not cooked through after the recommended time, continue baking it in 5-minute increments until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and check expiration dates before baking.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Store the loaf properly to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Date and walnut bread is a traditional British recipe that dates back to the 19th century. It was often served as a tea-time treat or as part of a dessert course.
Flavor profiles:
- The Date and Walnut Loaf with Chocolate Chips has a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of caramel from the soaked dates. The chocolate chips add a rich, indulgent touch.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Date and Walnut Loaf with Chocolate Chips as a dessert or as a sweet snack with tea or coffee.
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