If you’ve been searching for a moist, flavorful treat that beautifully balances sweet and citrusy notes, the Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe is your dream come true. This loaf combines the natural sweetness of dates, the bright zest of fresh oranges, and the delicate crunch of almonds into a comforting bread that’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or any cozy moment. Each bite offers a tender crumb enriched with hints of vanilla and brown sugar, making it a delightful way to brighten your day or impress guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting this loaf’s luscious texture and vivid flavors. Each component plays an essential role, from the moistening date-orange mixture to the nutty depth from ground almonds that gives this loaf its signature character.
- 150 g chopped pitted dates (1 cup): Provides natural sweetness and a rich, sticky texture that keeps the loaf moist.
- 180 ml freshly squeezed orange juice (3/4 cup): Adds bright citrus notes that complement the dates perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Enhances the loaf’s rise and balances the acidity of orange juice and dates.
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb.
- 100 g brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings deep caramel undertones that harmonize beautifully with the fruits.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to a light yet sturdy structure.
- Zest of 1 orange: Infuses fragrant citrus oils for a refreshing aroma and flavor boost.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the sweet and fruity palette.
- 200 g all-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base foundation providing structure to the loaf.
- 50 g ground almonds (1/2 cup): Gives a subtle nuttiness and helps create a tender crumb texture.
How to Make Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Date-Orange Mixture
Start by heating chopped dates with freshly squeezed orange juice in a small saucepan. Let this mixture simmer gently so the dates soften and absorb all those vibrant citrus flavors. Adding baking soda here not only improves the rise but also mellows the acidity, creating a velvety base that will enhance every bite.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
While your date mixture cools, cream the unsalted butter with brown sugar in a spacious bowl until the blend is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, helping your loaf achieve a tender crumb rather than a dense texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs, Orange Zest, and Vanilla
Add eggs one by one, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. Follow this with fresh orange zest and vanilla extract; these ingredients provide bursts of aromatic flavor that lift the entire loaf.
Step 4: Fold in Flour and Ground Almonds
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour alongside ground almonds. Gently fold them into your batter just until combined—overmixing can toughen the final loaf, so keep your strokes light to maintain that soft, moist texture you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Add the Date Mixture
Stir in the cooled date and orange mixture carefully, ensuring it is fully incorporated. This element adds both sweetness and moisture, contributing to the loaf’s luscious consistency and complex flavor profile.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, smoothing the surface for even baking. Slide it into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma while baking will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent that’s hard to resist.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the loaf to rest in its pan for 10 minutes. This brief cooling phase helps it set before you transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully ensures clean slicing and enhances the flavor development.
How to Serve Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
This loaf shines on its own, but topping slices with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a smear of creamy butter can elevate the experience. Fresh orange zest sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and an extra citrus kick that pairs beautifully with the loaf’s natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
Enjoy your Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a more substantial pairing, serve it with fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness with refreshing tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your loaf into beautiful mini servings by slicing it into finger-sized pieces and arranging them on a platter with edible flowers and orange slices. Alternatively, toast individual slices lightly and top with mascarpone and a drizzle of honey for an irresistible treat that looks impressive but is quick to make.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Date and Orange Almond Loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay deliciously moist and fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this loaf freezes beautifully. Slice it first for easy thawing, then wrap each slice well in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen slices keep well for up to two months, so you always have a sweet snack ready.
Reheating
Thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Warm them gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 20 seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness and enhance the aromatic flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground almonds in this recipe?
Yes! If you’re allergic or prefer a different nut flavor, finely ground walnuts or pecans can work well. Just make sure to keep the quantity the same to maintain the loaf’s texture.
Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Keep an eye on the moisture as gluten-free flours sometimes absorb differently, and you might need to adjust by adding a tablespoon or two of extra orange juice or a splash of milk.
Can I use dried orange peel instead of fresh orange zest?
Fresh orange zest is ideal for the bright, fresh citrus flavor it imparts. However, if you don’t have fresh oranges, dried orange peel can be an alternative. Use about half the amount since it tends to be more concentrated, but fresh zest really makes a difference in this loaf.
What’s the best way to chop dates for this recipe?
Use a sharp knife to chop dates into small pieces so they mix evenly throughout the batter. If your dates are too dry or firm, soaking them briefly in warm orange juice before chopping helps soften them and enhances their flavor.
Can I add nuts or other dried fruits to this loaf?
Definitely! Toasted chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a handful of dried cranberries can add texture and flavor variety. Just fold them in along with the ground almonds and flour to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe feels like handing you a little piece of comfort and joy wrapped in citrus and sweetness. It’s straightforward enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough to serve guests without a second thought. I truly hope you’ll bake it soon and let its delightful flavors fill your home and heart.
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Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Date and Orange Almond Loaf is a moist, flavorful bread combining the natural sweetness of dates with the bright citrus zing of fresh orange juice and zest. Enhanced with ground almonds for a tender crumb and rich texture, this loaf makes a perfect snack or dessert for any time of day. The use of baking soda with simmered dates helps achieve a lovely lightness, while the buttery batter ensures indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 150 g chopped pitted dates (1 cup)
- 180 ml freshly squeezed orange juice (3/4 cup)
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 100 g brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 200 g all-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
- 50 g ground almonds (1/2 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking during baking.
- Simmer Dates in Orange Juice: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dates and freshly squeezed orange juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the dates soften and absorb the juice. Stir in the baking soda and set aside to cool completely.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a bright, sweet aroma.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Batter: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and ground almonds into the batter, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the gluten.
- Combine Date Mixture: Stir the cooled date and orange juice mixture into the batter until fully incorporated, distributing the softened fruit evenly.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the date mixture is cool before adding it to the batter to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the ground almonds lightly before adding them to the flour.
- This loaf keeps well for several days stored in an airtight container and also freezes nicely for longer storage.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best fresh citrus flavor; bottled juice may alter taste.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, omit ground almonds or substitute with an equal amount of additional flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
