Discover a moist, flavorful Date and Orange Almond Loaf, blending the natural sweetness of dates, zesty orange, and nutty almonds. Ideal for breakfast, tea time, or a healthy dessert, this easy-to-make loaf bursts with wholesome ingredients. Elevate it with an optional orange glaze for a citrusy finish.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
50–55 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 10 minutes
Servings
8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Loaf:
- 150 g chopped pitted dates (1 cup)
- 180 ml freshly squeezed orange juice (3/4 cup)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup)
- 100 g brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100 g almond flour (1 cup)
- 100 g all-purpose flour (3/4 cup)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 60 g sliced almonds (1/2 cup), plus extra for topping
Optional Orange Glaze:
- 60 g powdered sugar (1/2 cup)
- 1–2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- Zest for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Soak the Dates
In a small bowl, mix chopped dates, orange juice, and baking soda. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften dates and enhance flavors.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs, Zest, and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each. Mix in orange zest and vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add date-orange mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low or by hand until just combined. Fold in sliced almonds.
Step 6: Bake the Loaf
Pour batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle with extra almonds. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Cover with foil if browning too quickly in the last 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool the Loaf
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Orange Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar with 1–2 tbsp orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaf and garnish with orange zest.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Slice into thick pieces for a snack, dessert, or breakfast. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Pro Tips
- Date Substitution: Use dried dates soaked in warm water for 10 minutes if fresh dates are unavailable.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap almond flour for extra all-purpose flour and skip sliced almonds.
- Orange Juice Freshness: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances flavor; avoid store-bought for best results.
- Make Ahead: Bake a day ahead and store at room temperature for deeper flavors.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, Based on 10 Servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Date and Orange Almond Loaf combines sweet dates, tangy orange, and crunchy almonds for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Naturally sweetened and nutrient-rich, it’s a versatile treat for any occasion, from morning coffee to evening dessert.
Bake this wholesome, citrusy loaf today and savor a slice of pure deliciousness!
