PREP TIME: 15 MINS
PLUS COOLING TIME
COOK TIME: 45-50 MINS
SERVES: 10-12

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ cups roughly chopped dates
• 125g Devondale Unsalted Butter
• 1 cup water
• ½ tsp bicarb soda
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup plain flour
• ¾ cup self raising flour
• ½ cup desiccated coconut

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC.
2. Place dates, butter, water, bicarbonate soda, and sugar in a saucepan and bring to the boil, stirring, then simmer uncovered for 2 minutes, cover and cool to room temperature.
3. Add eggs, both flours, and desiccated coconut, stirring into the mixture, then bake in a 22cm round, lined tin the oven for 45-50 minutes. Check to see if the top is browning too much around the 15-20 minute mark and cover with foil if necessary.
4. Test with a skewer and remove the cake from the oven when the skewer comes out clean.
5. Cool for 5-10 minutes in the tin, then remove to a cooling rack.

Tip:

Check to see if the top is browning too much around the 15-20 minute mark and cover with foil if necessary.

Here are a few variations you can try for the Date and Coconut Loaf:

1. Date and Nut Loaf: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the batter. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped nuts should work. The nuts add a nice crunch and complement the sweet dates.
2. Citrus Zest: Add some zest from an orange or lemon to the batter. The citrus zest will give the loaf a refreshing flavor and aroma. Start with the zest of one citrus fruit and adjust to your taste.
3. Spice It Up: Add warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the batter. These spices will add a cozy, comforting flavor to the loaf. Start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of your chosen spice.
4. Date and Ginger Loaf: Add finely chopped crystallized ginger to the batter. The ginger adds a zingy and spicy kick to the loaf, making it a great option for those who love a bit of heat.
5. Coconut Date Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting: Turn the loaf into a dessert by adding a delicious cream cheese frosting. Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over the cooled loaf for a sweet and creamy topping.
6. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Alternatively, use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
7. Date and Banana Bread: Add mashed ripe bananas to the batter. The natural sweetness of the bananas complements the dates, creating a moist and flavorful banana date bread.
8. Coconut Date Muffins: Instead of baking a loaf, use the same batter to make muffins. Fill muffin cups about 3/4 full and bake at the same temperature, but for a shorter time (around 20-25 minutes).
9. Date and Chopped Apple Bread: Add finely chopped apples to the batter. The apples provide a fresh and fruity flavor that complements the dates and coconut. Aim for about 1 cup of chopped apples.
10. Date and Chocolate Chip Bread: For a sweet twist, add chocolate chips to the batter. The combination of dates, coconut, and chocolate is irresistible. Use about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chocolate chips.