Decadent Spiced Pumpkin Nut Loaves with Dates and Raisins
Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of the holidays with this decadent Spiced Pumpkin Nut Loaf. Loaded with the rich taste of canned pumpkin, sweet dates, golden raisins, and crunchy walnuts, this quick bread makes a delightful treat for cozy gatherings, afternoon teas, or as a sweet snack with your favorite morning beverage. The combination of pumpkin pie spice, sour cream, and a hint of vanilla adds layers of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for gifting or freezing, just be sure to defrost before enjoying alongside a warm cup of coffee or spiced cider. You'll love the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes – a true seasonal delight to share with loved ones!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Canned pumpkin
1 (cup)
Butter
1/2 (cup, softened)
Sugar
1 1/4 (cups)
Eggs
2 (large)
Sour cream
1/3 (cup)
Vanilla extract
1 (teaspoon)
All-purpose flour
1 1/2 (cups)
Baking soda
1 (teaspoon)
Baking powder
1/2 (teaspoon)
Pumpkin pie spice
2 (teaspoons)
Chopped walnuts
1/2 (cup)
Golden raisins
1/2 (cup)
Chopped dates
1/2 (cup)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three mini-loaf foil pans (6x3x2-inch).
2
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the canned pumpkin, softened butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined and smooth.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5
Fold in the chopped walnuts, golden raisins, and chopped dates until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6
Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared mini-loaf pans.
7
Place the pans on a cookie sheet for easy transfer and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
8
Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before gently removing them. Continue cooling on a wire rack.
9
Serve the loaves warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of sweet whipped butter. Enjoy the festive flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Spiced Pumpkin Nut Loaf?
It is a warm, seasonal quick bread featuring canned pumpkin, sweet dates, golden raisins, and crunchy walnuts.
How many loaves does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to yield three mini-loaves.
What size pans are required for this recipe?
You should use three mini-loaf foil pans measuring approximately 6x3x2 inches.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
What kind of pumpkin should I use?
The recipe calls for one cup of canned pumpkin.
How should the butter be prepared before mixing?
The half cup of butter should be softened to ensure it beats smoothly with the other ingredients.
What wet ingredients are mixed together first?
Beat together the pumpkin, softened butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
What dry ingredients are needed?
You will need all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
How do I incorporate the dry ingredients?
Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Why is it important not to overmix the batter?
Overmixing can result in a tougher texture rather than a light, tender crumb.
What types of nuts are used in this bread?
The recipe specifically calls for one half cup of chopped walnuts.
Which dried fruits are included in the recipe?
The bread includes one half cup of golden raisins and one half cup of chopped dates.
When should the walnuts, raisins, and dates be added?
Fold them into the batter at the very end until they are evenly distributed.
How should the pans be prepared?
Grease the three mini-loaf pans before adding the batter.
How do I safely transfer the mini-loaf pans to the oven?
Place the mini-pans on a cookie sheet for easier handling and transfer.
What is the total baking time?
The loaves should bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
How can I tell if the pumpkin loaves are finished baking?
Insert a cake tester into the center; if it comes out clean, the loaves are done.
How long should the loaves cool in the pan?
Allow them to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before removal.
Where should the loaves finish cooling?
Once removed from the pans, continue cooling them on a wire rack.
Can I freeze these pumpkin nut loaves?
Yes, these loaves are perfect for freezing. Just ensure you defrost them before eating.
What is the best way to serve this bread?
Serve it warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of sweet whipped butter.
Does this recipe work for holiday gifting?
Yes, the mini-loaf size makes them an excellent choice for seasonal gifts for friends and family.
What purpose does the sour cream serve?
Sour cream adds moisture and a rich layer of flavor to the bread.
What flavor profile can I expect?
The loaf features warm holiday spices, sweet fruit, and earthy nuts for a complex seasonal taste.
What kind of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is the standard choice for this quick bread.
Can I substitute other nuts?
While walnuts are recommended, you could likely substitute pecans if preferred.
How much pumpkin pie spice is used?
The recipe calls for two teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice.
Is there a specific way to divide the batter?
Divide the batter as evenly as possible among the three prepared mini-loaf pans.
Are there any vegan options?
While the base recipe uses eggs and butter, it is tagged for vegan options, implying common plant-based substitutions can be made.
What beverages pair well with this pumpkin bread?
It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or warm spiced cider.