Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe
The Date and Orange Almond Loaf is pure sunshine in every slice, balancing the gooey sweetness of dates, the zesty brightness of fresh orange, and a satisfying nutty crunch. Just one bite and you’ll see why this Mediterranean-inspired loaf feels equally at home with morning coffee or dressed up for an afternoon treat. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or a moment of solo indulgence, it’s destined to make your kitchen smell irresistible and your tastebuds happy. This is a recipe you’ll want to keep close—it’s genuinely one of my personal top favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be delighted by how each ingredient in this Date and Orange Almond Loaf works its own little magic—from chewy pockets of dates to the aromatic lift of citrus zest. These are all easy-to-find, straightforward ingredients, but together, they create something truly special in both taste and texture.
- Dates (1 cup, pitted and chopped): These sticky-sweet bites provide natural sweetness and lovely moistness.
- Boiling Water (1 cup): Softens the dates, making them melt into the batter for maximum juiciness.
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps tenderize the dates and gives the loaf a beautiful rise.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): The creamy rich base for unbeatable flavor and moist crumb.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed): Adds a hint of caramel flavor and extra softness.
- Large Eggs (2): Give structure and help the loaf rise nicely.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with cozy warmth.
- Orange Zest (from 1 large orange): Lends a fresh, vibrant aroma and flavor—the secret to the loaf’s sunny personality!
- All-Purpose Flour (1¾ cups): The trusty backbone holding everything together.
- Baking Powder (1½ teaspoons): Ensures your loaf rises to airy, golden perfection.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and enhances every flavor note.
- Chopped Almonds (½ cup plus more for topping): Add nutty crunch and a rustic look.
- Orange Juice (2 tablespoons): Moisten the loaf and amp up the citrusy zing.
How to Make Date and Orange Almond Loaf
Step 1: Prep the Loaf Pan and Oven
Get started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. This little bit of prep means your Date and Orange Almond Loaf will lift right out without a hitch and keep its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Soften the Dates
Combine the chopped dates and baking soda in a small bowl, then pour the boiling water right over. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for 10 minutes. The hot water works magic here, plumping the dates and making them lusciously tender so every slice ends up moist.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for a loaf that’s airy, soft, and not too dense. Take two minutes or so—your patience will be rewarded!
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Orange Zest
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and the zest from your orange, which will perfume the batter and give your loaf its singular flavor.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing your dry ingredients separately helps keep clumps at bay and ensures your Date and Orange Almond Loaf bakes up evenly all the way through.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now for the real magic: begin adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture a little at a time, alternating with the date mixture (don’t drain—use all of it!). Mix just until combined to keep the loaf tender, not tough. You want a thick, but pourable batter.
Step 7: Fold in Almonds and Orange Juice
Gently fold in the chopped almonds and that splash of orange juice. This is where texture and flavor come together! If you like extra crunch, toss in a few more almonds.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle with extra chopped almonds for a pretty, rustic finish. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. Let your loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—if you can wait that long!
How to Serve Date and Orange Almond Loaf
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar looks stunning, or drizzle the loaf with a quick orange glaze (just mix powdered sugar with a bit of fresh orange juice). Extra toasted almonds on top add elegance and crunch—each bite feels just a bit special.
Side Dishes
Enjoy a slice with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh berries for breakfast, or serve alongside a mug of hot tea or espresso for an afternoon lift. Or, go the indulgent route: a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert. The loaf’s sweet tartness makes it versatile with so many sides!
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the Date and Orange Almond Loaf into thin fingers for a tea tray, or cube it for a breakfast parfait layered with yogurt and fruit. For a holiday table, wrap individual slices in parchment and twine as thoughtful edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The loaf stays moist for several days when wrapped snugly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have a little self-control, you’ll find the flavors deepen and become more delicious the next day!
Freezing
This Date and Orange Almond Loaf freezes beautifully. Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter for an easy treat anytime.
Reheating
To refresh a slice, pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds, or lightly toast it for a bit of crunch—the orange and almond aroma will come alive again and make your kitchen smell like pure happiness.
FAQs
Can I substitute another nut for the almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios work wonderfully in this recipe, or you can leave out the nuts altogether for a smoother loaf.
Do I need to peel the dates?
No peeling needed—just make sure to remove any pits before chopping. Medjool or Deglet Noor dates are perfect because of their natural sweetness and softer texture.
Why do I need to soak the dates?
Soaking the dates in boiling water softens them up, making them distribute evenly through the batter and lending that signature moist crumb to your Date and Orange Almond Loaf.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap in your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Results may vary slightly in density, but the flavor stays fantastic.
How do I know when the loaf is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Date and Orange Almond Loaf is ready. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a loaf that’s irresistibly moist, full of bright citrus and luscious dates, and finished with a nutty crunch, this Date and Orange Almond Loaf is for you. I truly hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine—give it a try, share a slice, and let every bite brighten your day!
Print
Date and Orange Almond Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Date and Orange Almond Loaf, a moist and nutty quick bread with a citrus twist. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this Mediterranean-inspired loaf is a true treat for your taste buds.
Ingredients
Dates Mixture:
- 1 cup pitted dates (chopped)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Batter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- zest of 1 large orange
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped almonds (plus more for topping)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare dates: In a small bowl, combine chopped dates and baking soda, then pour over the boiling water. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and orange zest.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, alternating with the date mixture. Fold in almonds and orange juice.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan, smooth the top, sprinkle with almonds, and bake for 55–65 minutes. Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This loaf keeps well for several days and tastes better the next day.
- Add a glaze of orange juice and powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Toast almonds for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
