Carob Date Loaf

Carob Date Loaf Recipe from Arabia - Ingredients: Dates, Carob, Whole Wheat Flour, and More!

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

History

Carob Date Loaf has been a popular dessert for many years, with its origins dating back to ancient times. Dates have long been used as a natural sweetener in Middle Eastern cuisine, while carob powder has been used as a chocolate substitute in Mediterranean cooking. By combining these two ingredients, this recipe creates a unique and delicious dessert that is both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates, cut into pieces
1.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 cup carob powder
3 tbsp safflower shortening
0.75 cup + 1 tbsp boiling water
1 tsp orange blossom water or vanilla extract
0.75 cup honey (warmed to pouring consistency)
1.25 cup whole wheat flour

How to prepare

Place the dates, baking soda, salt, and carob powder in a mixing bowl.
Toss lightly with a fork.
Add the shortening and boiling water, but do not stir.
Let the mixture stand for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Combine the eggs and orange blossom water or vanilla.
Add the honey and flour, stirring until well blended.
Add the date mixture, stirring just to blend.
Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9- by 5-inch loaf pan.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool before removing it from the pan.
Serve plain or top each slice with plain yogurt sweetened with a little honey.

Variations

Replace carob powder with 0.75 cups of chopped walnuts. Decrease the amount of boiling water by 1 tbsp and replace honey with 1 cup of sugar.
Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and texture.
Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.
Mix in some shredded coconut or dried fruit for added sweetness and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the dates into small pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the loaf.

- Be sure to let the date mixture stand for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Grease the loaf pan well to prevent sticking.

- Allow the loaf to cool before removing it from the pan to prevent it from falling apart.

- Serve the loaf plain or with a dollop of sweetened yogurt for a delicious and creamy topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carob Date Loaf plain or with a dollop of sweetened yogurt for a creamy topping.

- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delicious and satisfying dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid overmixing the batter.

- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have carob powder, you can use cocoa powder as a substitute.

- Replace the safflower shortening with coconut oil or butter for a different flavor profile.

- Use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour for a lighter texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Carob Date Loaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish slices of Carob Date Loaf with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for a beautiful presentation. - Serve on a decorative platter with fresh fruit or nuts for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Carob Date Loaf with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

- Enjoy with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad for a light and refreshing treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Carob Date Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving for a warm and comforting treat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Each serving of Carob Date Loaf contains approximately 200 calories.

- This makes it a relatively low-calorie dessert option that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

Carbohydrates

- Carob Date Loaf is a great source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbs.

- Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling your daily activities.

Fats

- This recipe contains safflower shortening, which is a healthy fat that can help lower cholesterol levels.

- Each serving of Carob Date Loaf contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

- While this recipe is not a significant source of protein, each serving contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

- Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Dates are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

- Carob powder is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamins A, B, and D.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat flour and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals.

- Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Carob Date Loaf is a nutritious and delicious dessert that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

- This recipe is a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying treat.

Summary

Carob Date Loaf is a delicious and nutritious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of carob powder to create a moist and flavorful loaf that is sure to please your taste buds. With its low calorie count and high vitamin and mineral content, this dessert is a healthy and satisfying option for those looking for a guilt-free treat. Serve plain or with a dollop of sweetened yogurt for a creamy topping, and enjoy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delicious and satisfying dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a potluck dinner. As I walked into her kitchen, the sweet scent of baking filled the air, and I knew I had to find out what was causing such delicious aromas.

My friend, Mary, greeted me with a smile and a warm hug. She was busy bustling around the kitchen, pulling pans out of the oven and stirring pots on the stove. I couldn't help but notice a loaf of bread cooling on the counter, its deep brown color and flecks of dates peeking out from the top.

"What is that amazing smell?" I asked, my mouth watering at the thought of taking a bite.

Mary laughed and motioned towards the loaf. "That, my dear, is my famous Carob Date Loaf. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like to try a slice?"

I eagerly nodded, and Mary sliced me a thick piece of the moist loaf. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of rich, chocolaty flavor mixed with the natural sweetness of dates. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the next few weeks, Mary graciously shared her family recipe with me, teaching me the ins and outs of creating the perfect Carob Date Loaf. She explained how the carob powder added a unique depth of flavor, while the dates provided a natural sweetness that made the bread irresistible.

As I mixed the ingredients together in my own kitchen, I couldn't help but think back to Mary's warm smile and the way she had passed down her family recipe with such love and care. I knew that this Carob Date Loaf would become a staple in my own collection of recipes, to be shared with friends and family for years to come.

As I pulled the finished loaf out of the oven, the scent of baking bread filled my kitchen, just like it had in Mary's house that warm summer day. I sliced myself a piece and took a bite, savoring the rich flavors and the memories that came with each bite.

Since that day, I have made Mary's Carob Date Loaf countless times, each batch turning out just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition that Mary had shared with me so generously.

I often think back to that first time I saw the recipe for Carob Date Loaf, and how it had sparked a passion for baking and creating in me. It is a reminder of the power of good food and good friends, and the joy that can be found in sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Mary's Carob Date Loaf a chance. It may just become a favorite in your own collection of recipes, passed down through the generations with love and care.