Natural Sugar Alternative

Magical dates. How lucky are we that we live in a part of the world where dates are a staple food of the local culture? We are always looking for new ways to use them, especially as an alternative to refined sugar. Whether you are baking for the holidays or are looking for the ultimate all natural sweetener, you can whip up a batch of our easy dates spread in minutes.

The recipe is made with just a handful of pantry ingredients blitzed together in a food processor until smooth and silky. We use medjool dates for their soft plump flesh. The result is a rich and sweet spread that’s incredibly decadent. You can use it in cakes and muffins (suitable for paleo versions) or simply on top of our toasted sourdough with a sprinkling of chopped pistachios for crunch.

For the date spread

• 300 grams medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• hot water

Place the dates in a large bowl and cover with hot water until completely submerged, let sit for 15 minutes until soft. Remove the dates from the water, do not discard the water. Place the dates in a food processor with the vanilla extract, sea salt and 3/4 cup of the reserved water. Blitz the dates for 2 minutes and scrape down the sides. If the dates haven’t come together, add an additional 1/4 cup of water and keep processing till smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes more

Store the spread in a jar in the fridge for up to two weeks.

To serve

• For the Love of Bread organic country sourdough batard, sliced and toasted
• pistachios, chopped roughly

Spread the date spread on the toast and top with chopped pistachios. Enjoy!