Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Place chopped dates in a bowl, pour boiling water over them, and stir in the baking soda; let stand for 10 minutes to soften.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree, followed by the cooled coffee.
Gently fold the softened dates (including the soaking liquid) into the wet ingredients. If using nuts, fold them in now.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the coffee glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of brewed coffee until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled loaf before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store my Pumpkin Chocolate Date Coffee Loaf to keep it fresh?
This loaf stays wonderfully moist when stored properly. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to three months.
Can I substitute the dates in this loaf recipe with another dried fruit?
While the dates are crucial for moisture and sweetness, you can substitute them with an equal amount of finely chopped dried figs or prunes. Remember to still soak them in the 1/2 cup of boiling water with the baking soda for 10 minutes before incorporating them into the batter.
What is the best way to ensure my loaf bakes evenly since it has dense ingredients like dates?
To ensure an even bake for this medium-difficulty loaf, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the pan inside. Check doneness around the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
