Baked Goods > Bread > Fruit Bread

Totara and Date Loaf Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of chopped dates
- 1 cup of boiling water
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 cup of butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups of flour
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 cup of chopped totara nuts

Special equipment needed:
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 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 mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
7. Fold in the chopped totara nuts and the date mixture.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 50-60 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: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
8-10 slices

Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 300mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute walnuts or pecans for the totara nuts.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar.

Variations:
- Add 1 tsp of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a spiced version.
- Replace the dates with raisins or dried cranberries.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar.
- Don't overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added.
- 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 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the loaf, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Slice the loaf and serve it on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped totara nuts on top of the loaf before serving.

Pairings:
Serve the Totara and Date Loaf with a cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit or a side salad would pair well with this loaf.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the loaf is browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time.
- If the loaf is not cooked through, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and utensils before preparing the recipe.

Food history:
Totara nuts are native to New Zealand and were traditionally used by the Maori people for food and medicine.

Flavor profiles:
The Totara and Date Loaf has a sweet and nutty flavor with a moist texture.

Serving suggestions:
Slice the loaf and serve it as a dessert or snack.

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Region: New Zealand

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Fruity, Moist