Bread > Quick Breads

Date and Walnut Raisin Bread Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup raisins
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped dates, walnuts, and raisins. Set aside.

3. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

4. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.

5. Add the vanilla extract and buttermilk to the sugar mixture and mix until smooth.

6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

7. Fold in the date, walnut, and raisin mixture.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a rubber spatula.

9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
One 9x5 inch loaf, serves 8-10 people

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 290mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use chopped pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a tart flavor.
- Swap out the dates for chopped figs or apricots.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to chop the dates, walnuts, and raisins into small pieces so that they distribute evenly throughout the bread.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough and dense bread.
- If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time.

Storage Instructions:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.

Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the bread, wrap it in foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Slice the bread and serve it on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Cut the bread into cubes and use it as a base for a bread pudding.
- Toast a slice of the bread and top it with cream cheese for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Garnishes:
- Dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve the bread with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Pairings:
- Serve the bread with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
- Pair it with a glass of milk for a classic combination.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the bread with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries.
- Pair it with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese for a protein-packed breakfast.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the bread is too dry, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of buttermilk to the batter.
- If the bread is too moist, try reducing the amount of dates and raisins in the recipe.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the bread.
- Store the bread in an airtight container to prevent spoilage.

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 and was popular during World War II due to its long shelf life.

Flavor Profiles:
- This bread is sweet and nutty, with a hint of cinnamon and a chewy texture from the dates and raisins.

Serving Suggestions:
- Slice the bread and serve it as a dessert or snack.
- Toast a slice and spread it with butter or jam for a delicious breakfast.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Moist, Aromatic