Indulge in the ultimate weekend baking experience with this Decadent Sticky Date Loaf, featuring a rich date swirl and a heavenly cinnamon-spice glaze. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a light, fluffy, and incredibly moist loaf that's not just delicious but also easy to make. It's the perfect blend of natural sweetness from dates, the warmth of cinnamon, and the unique texture that only a date purée can provide.
Why You'll Love This
This Sticky Date Loaf is a testament to the magic of home baking. It's the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas and your heart with warmth. The combination of fluffy cake, rich date flavor, and sweet glaze makes each slice a luxurious experience. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises satisfaction and might just become one of your favorites too.
Perfect Occasion
This loaf is ideal for any occasion that calls for a special touch without the need for an elaborate dessert. It's perfect for weekend brunches, cozy family gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Serve it at afternoon tea or enjoy it as a delightful end to a casual dinner; its versatility knows no bounds.
Decoration Tips
To make this loaf as beautiful as it is delicious, drizzle the cinnamon-spice glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. Garnishing with a few date pieces or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance its visual appeal and hint at the flavors inside.
Ingredients:
- 180g dates, pitted
- Boiling water, enough to cover the dates
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup coconut or brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Glaze:
- Icing sugar
- Water
- Mixed spice
- Cinnamon
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C) and prepare a 1-liter loaf tin with parchment paper.
- Soak the dates and baking soda in boiling water for 10 minutes to soften. Then, blend with about 3 tablespoons of this water to create a smooth date purée. Set aside.
- Whisk together melted coconut oil and sugar. Add eggs, cinnamon, honey, vanilla, and three-quarters of the date purée, mixing well.
- Fold in the self-raising flour and baking powder until just combined. Pour half the batter into the prepared tin.
- Layer the remaining date purée over the batter, swirling it through with a knife. Top with the remaining batter.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool in the tin.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing icing sugar, water, mixed spice, and cinnamon to your desired consistency. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Enjoy this Decadent Sticky Date Loaf with its delightful cinnamon-spice glaze, a true celebration of simple ingredients brought together to create a memorable treat.