Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped pitted 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
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Special equipment needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
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 sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts and the date mixture.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup of the batter.
9. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cinnamon mixture over the batter and swirl with a knife. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon swirl.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
11. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and placing it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
1 slice
Nutritional information:
Calories: 280
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts instead of walnuts, such as pecans or almonds.
- Instead of dates, you can use raisins or dried cranberries.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate twist.
- Substitute the cinnamon swirl with a swirl of caramel sauce for a sweeter loaf.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to the batter for a spicier flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter, as it can result in a tough loaf.
- Let the loaf cool completely before slicing it to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage instructions:
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the loaf, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the loaf sliced on a plate or on a cake stand.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle powdered sugar or chopped walnuts on top of the loaf before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the loaf with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit or a side salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the loaf is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the loaf is too moist, try baking it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before and after handling food. Store the loaf properly to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Date and walnut loaf is a traditional British cake that dates back to the 19th century.
Flavor profiles:
The loaf has a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the loaf as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Cinnamon, Moist, Cinnamon-Spiced