This Party Date bread is a rich, moist dessert loaf that balances the deep caramel sweetness of dates with the earthy richness of cocoa. The batter is dense yet tender, featuring a delightful texture contrast from the crunchy topping of chopped nuts, sugar, and chocolate bits. It’s an indulgent treat perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a special weekend baking project. The combination of warm spices inherent in the dates and the chocolate notes makes it a crowd-pleaser that feels both homemade and elegant. Serve it warm with a dollop of cream for an unforgettable finish.
Party Date
Description
This Party Date bread is a rich, moist dessert loaf that balances the deep caramel sweetness of dates with the earthy richness of cocoa. The batter is dense yet tender, featuring a delightful texture contrast from the crunchy topping of chopped nuts, sugar, and chocolate bits. It&# 226;ÂÂs an indulgent treat perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a special weekend baking project. The combination of warm spices inherent in the dates and the chocolate notes makes it a crowd-pleaser that feels both homemade and elegant. Serve it warm with a dollop of cream for an unforgettable finish.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC) and grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans.
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In a large bowl, combine the cut dates and boiling water. Let stand for 15 minutes to soften, then stir in the baking soda.
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In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and 3 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Stir in the cocoa powder and flour alternately with the date mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
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In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup of sugar, chopped nuts, and chocolate bits to create the topping.
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Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter in both pans.
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Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow loaves to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 25
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 4395.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 178.2g275%
- Saturated Fat 59.8g299%
- Cholesterol 279.8mg94%
- Sodium 135.0mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 666.6g223%
- Dietary Fiber 40.3g162%
- Sugars 417.4g
- Protein 57.4g115%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 3 months.
You can substitute vegetable oil for the shortening for a softer crumb. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work well for the chopped nuts.
Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth. For a dairy-free version, ensure your chocolate bits are dairy-free and use a plant-based butter substitute if preferred (note: eggs are not vegan).
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
