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

Scale

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)

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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