Date And Ginger Tea Loaf

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Lightly coat an 81/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 loaf pan with canola oil spray. Set aside.

2. 2

   In one bowl, combine the banana, dates, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and maple syrup. In another bowl, combine the two flours, baking powder and salt. Set both bowls aside.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.

4. 4

   Mix in the eggs. The mixture may look curdled. Stir in the dry ingredients. Blend in the banana mixture, creating a sticky, thick batter. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly.

5. 5

   Bake 35 minutes, or until the top is well-browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. 6

   Let the cake rest 2 minutes in the pan, then turn out and cool it completely on a rack. If possible, wrap it in foil and set it aside for 24 hours before serving, to allow the flavors to mellow.

7. 7

   If desired, slices of cake can be warmed just before serving by wrapping them in wax paper and heating in a microwave at low power for a few seconds.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.