Moist Sticky Date Loaf with Zesty Orange and Citrus Brightness
A comforting loaf featuring soft, caramel-like dates and bright orange zest, perfect for snacks or breakfast.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted dates, chopped into bite-sized pieces Medjool or soft Deglet Noor work best.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps soften the dates.
- 1/2 cup boiling water To soak and plump the dates.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Brings richness and tenderness.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar Light or dark depending on desired caramel notes.
- 2 large eggs Room temperature for better mixing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Rounds out the sweetness.
- 1 zest of orange Finely grated for bright aroma.
- 2-3 tablespoons juice of orange Adds acidity and freshness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides the structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Gives a gentle lift.
- 1 pinch salt Balances the flavors.
Optional Add-ons
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans For crunch and nutty backdrop.
- 2 tablespoons molasses or golden syrup Deepens the toffee notes.
- 1 cup powdered sugar For a simple orange glaze.
- 1-2 tablespoons orange juice For the glaze.
- 1 dollop of mascarpone or clotted cream Lovely for serving.
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or baking spray, and line it with parchment paper.
Soften the Dates
- In a medium bowl, sprinkle baking soda over chopped dates, then pour boiling water on top. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and somewhat fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.
Combine the Date Mixture
- Pour the soaked date mixture into the butter-sugar-egg bowl and stir until evenly combined.
Fold in Dry Ingredients
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
Add Optional Extras
- Fold in any nuts or extra add-ins if using.
Bake
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserts clean.
Cool and Release
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using parchment overhang and cool completely.
Optional Glaze and Storage
- Whisk powdered sugar and orange juice to create a glaze and drizzle over cooled loaf. Store the loaf wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
Customizable with ingredients like different nuts, glazes, or dairy-free options. If using date paste, reduce soaking time as needed.