Date Pecan and Tea Bread 🍞🌰

This Date Pecan and Tea Bread is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy breakfast. The sweet dates pair beautifully with crunchy pecans, while the hint of tea adds a unique twist. Enjoy it warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese, or simply savor it on its own. This recipe is sure to become a treasured addition to your baking repertoire! ☕🌟

Ingredients

For the bread

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup brewed tea (black or chai, cooled)
• 1 cup chopped medjool dates (pitted)
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the glaze (optional)

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp brewed tea
• A squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

🥄 Make sure to measure the flour accurately for best results. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the brewed tea and vanilla extract.

• Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

• Gently fold in the chopped dates and pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

🌟 For an extra nutty flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. Just watch them closely to prevent burning!

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

• (Optional) Whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed tea, and a squeeze of lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread for a sweet finish.

Variations

• Dairy-free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
• Nut-free: Omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
• Spiced: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a warm spice flavor.
• Fruit twist: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or apricots alongside the dates for an extra burst of flavor.

This Date Pecan and Tea Bread is a heartwarming treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of your favorite tea. Enjoy! 🍵💖