Sweet and fragrant, Pan De Dátiles Date Bread is a beloved Mexican Christmas tradition that fills homes with warmth and festive cheer. This delightful bread is bursting with the rich flavors of dates and hints of cinnamon, making it the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of Mexican flair to your Christmas spread or simply craving a cozy and delicious treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
**Pan De Dátiles Date Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, place the chopped dates and sprinkle the baking soda over them. Pour the boiling water over the dates and let stand for 15 minutes to soften.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the softened dates along with the soaking liquid. If desired, stir in the chopped walnuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Slice and serve this delightful Pan De Dátiles Date Bread on a cozy Christmas morning or as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings.
This Pan De Dátiles Date Bread is a wonderful addition to any Christmas celebration, bringing a taste of Mexican tradition to your home. The combination of sweet dates, warm spices, and a moist crumb make it a delightful treat for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this bread is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday season. Enjoy the aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen as you bake this festive and delicious bread, and let the flavors transport you to a cozy Mexican Christmas celebration.
