Ingredients

1 cup brown sugar , packed
1 cup chopped dried dates
1 cup water
2 ounces butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla or 1 teaspoon maple extract
2 cups self raising flour
2 teaspoons mixed spice
3 teaspoons dried ginger
1/2 cup chopped walnuts ( optional ) or 1/2 cup pecans ( optional )
The American Spiced Date Loaf is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. Filled with warm spices like ginger and mixed spice, this loaf is great for a cozy weekend breakfast or afternoon snack. The recipe is easy to follow and uses ingredients that are often found in the pantry, like butter, brown sugar, and flour. The loaf can also be made ahead and stored for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep or on-the-go breakfast.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf tin with cooking spray.
2.In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, chopped dates, water, and butter, and heat until the sugar has dissolved.
3.Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. Beat in the egg and vanilla or maple extract.
4.In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, mixed spice, and dried ginger. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5.Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if using.
6.Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7.Allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing from the tin and slicing.

PROS

The warm flavors of mixed spice and ginger make this date loaf, perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
The loaf is also easy to make and can be paired with a variety of spreads, like jam or butter.

CONS

The loaf can be quite dense, so be sure to slice it thinly.
Additionally, the brown sugar makes this loaf quite high in sugar content.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although this loaf is high in sugar, dates do offer some health benefits.
They are a low glycemic index food, meaning they don’t spike blood sugar levels as much as other sweeteners.
They are also a great source of fiber and potassium.

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