Beer Can Date Bread

Beer Can Date Bread Recipe - Delicious Homemade Bread with Beer and Dates

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15-30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Beer Can Date Bread is a unique and delightful twist on traditional date bread recipes. This innovative approach involves baking the bread directly in beer cans, providing not only a moist and flavorful loaf but also an interesting conversation starter. The combination of dates, beer, and pecans creates a rich and complex flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly nutty, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

History

The concept of baking bread in cans dates back to the early 20th century, originally as a convenient method for campers and outdoor enthusiasts to bake bread without the need for specialized equipment. The Beer Can Date Bread recipe, however, is a more modern innovation that combines traditional baking techniques with the quirky twist of using beer cans as baking vessels. This recipe not only pays homage to the resourcefulness of early bakers but also adds a contemporary flair with the inclusion of beer and dates.

Ingredients

8 empty beer cans
2 tbsp soda
1 cup dates
2 cups beer
3 tbsp butter
1 cup maple syrup
1 tbsp vanilla
2 eggs
4 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup pecans

How to prepare

Remove the tops from the beer cans using a can opener and lightly oil the insides.
Sprinkle soda on the dates.
Heat the beer until it boils and pour it over the date and soda mixture. Set it aside to cool.
Cream together the butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs.
Stir in the flour.
Add the nuts and the cooled date mixture.
Spoon the batter into the cans, filling them only halfway.
Bake with the cans standing upright on a cookie sheet at 350°F (177°C) for 15–30 minutes. Look for the tops to split and test for doneness.
Do not cut the bread for 1 day. The bread may break up if it is sliced while still warm.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding chocolate chips, swapping pecans for walnuts, or using honey instead of maple syrup. These variations can add new flavors and textures to the bread.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Beer Can Date Bread, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use non-alcoholic beer as an alternative if you prefer not to use regular beer.

- Ensure the beer cans are thoroughly cleaned and dried before use.

- Lightly greasing the insides of the cans will make it easier to remove the bread once it's baked.

- Be careful not to overfill the cans to avoid overflow during baking.

- Allow the bread to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the cans to prevent it from breaking apart.

Serving Suggestions

Beer Can Date Bread can be enjoyed on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the bread in beer cans is a unique technique that not only imparts a subtle beer flavor but also creates a moist and tender crumb. It's important to monitor the baking time closely to avoid overbaking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make the recipe gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free pastry flour can be used in place of whole pastry flour. Similarly, for a dairy-free version, coconut oil can replace butter.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter for Beer Can Date Bread can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This can save time and make the baking process more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

For an eye-catching presentation, serve slices of Beer Can Date Bread on a rustic wooden board accompanied by fresh dates and pecans. Drizzle with additional maple syrup for added sweetness.

Pairing Recommendations

Beer Can Date Bread pairs beautifully with strong cheeses, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar, for a savory contrast. It also complements sweet dessert wines or a robust cup of coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Beer Can Date Bread contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a relatively energy-dense food, ideal for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Beer Can Date Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the whole pastry flour and dates, which provide the body with energy and are essential for brain function.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being butter and pecans. These ingredients contribute to the bread's moist texture and rich flavor, while also providing essential fatty acids necessary for healthy body function.

Proteins

Beer Can Date Bread offers around 5 grams of protein per serving. The protein in this recipe comes from the eggs and nuts, which are important for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This bread is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E from the pecans, iron and potassium from the dates, and various B vitamins from the whole pastry flour. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The main allergens present in this recipe are gluten (from the flour), nuts (pecans), and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this bread or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Beer Can Date Bread is a nutritious and flavorful option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is relatively high in calories and contains potential allergens, so consumption should be moderated accordingly.

Summary

Beer Can Date Bread is a delightful and innovative recipe that combines the sweetness of dates with the richness of beer and pecans. With its unique baking method and versatile flavor profile, it's sure to be a hit with both adventurous bakers and those looking for a new twist on traditional bread recipes. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this bread offers a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

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I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Beer Can Date Bread. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my Aunt Betty in a small town in the countryside. Aunt Betty was known for her delicious baked goods, and I always looked forward to spending time with her in the kitchen.

On this particular visit, Aunt Betty had a group of her friends over for tea and gossip. As they chatted away, I sat at the kitchen table watching Aunt Betty work her magic with flour, sugar, and eggs. Suddenly, one of her friends, Mrs. Jenkins, mentioned a recipe she had recently come across for Beer Can Date Bread.

Mrs. Jenkins described how the bread was sweet, moist, and full of flavor, thanks to the combination of dates, nuts, and a can of beer. I was intrigued by the idea of using beer in a bread recipe and couldn't wait to see Aunt Betty's take on it.

The next day, Aunt Betty and I set to work in the kitchen, gathering all the ingredients we needed for the Beer Can Date Bread. We started by chopping up a generous amount of dates and walnuts, which would add a delicious texture to the bread. Then, Aunt Betty poured a can of beer into a mixing bowl, along with some sugar, flour, and baking soda.

As she mixed the ingredients together, the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of dates and beer. I watched in awe as Aunt Betty poured the batter into a loaf pan and popped it into the oven to bake. The anticipation of tasting the finished bread was almost too much to bear.

When the timer finally went off, Aunt Betty pulled the bread out of the oven, its golden crust glistening in the light. She let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it, revealing a moist and fragrant loaf that looked absolutely irresistible.

I took a bite of the Beer Can Date Bread and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The bread was sweet and nutty, with a subtle hint of beer that added a unique twist to the traditional date bread recipe. Aunt Betty and I shared a slice together, savoring every bite and marveling at how something so simple could be so delicious.

From that day on, Beer Can Date Bread became a staple in Aunt Betty's kitchen, and she would often make it for special occasions or just to treat herself and her loved ones. Whenever I think back on that day in Aunt Betty's kitchen, I can still taste the warm, comforting flavors of the Beer Can Date Bread and feel a sense of nostalgia for those simpler times.

I have since made the recipe countless times for my own family and friends, passing down the tradition of Beer Can Date Bread from one generation to the next. Each time I bake a loaf, I am reminded of that special moment with Aunt Betty and Mrs. Jenkins, and how a simple recipe can bring so much joy and connection to those who share it.