Description

This Date and Orange Almond Loaf is a delightful sweet bread that combines the flavors of dates, orange, and almonds in every bite. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea, this moist and flavorful loaf is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

Dates Mixture:

1 cup chopped pitted dates
1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)

Batter:

Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds (toasted)
2 tablespoons sliced almonds (for topping, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Prepare Dates Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine chopped dates and orange juice. Simmer over medium heat, then let cool slightly.
Mix Batter: Cream butter, brown sugar, and orange zest in a bowl. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Fold in date mixture and chopped almonds.
Bake: Pour batter into loaf pan, sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for 45–55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

This loaf is delicious served slightly warm with butter or cream cheese.
Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.