SAMHUINN: Maple Date Hazelnut Bread
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
1 egg, beaten or equivalent of egg substitute
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup applesauce
1 teaspoon grated orange rind, optional
1 cup chopped pitted dates
1/4 cup currants
1/4 to 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
Preheat the oven to 350F. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and spices. In another bowl, beat the eggs together with the oil, syrup, applesauce and optional orange rind. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the wet mixture. Stir vigorously until thoroughly combined. Stir in the dates, currants and hazelnuts. Pour into an oiled 9 by 5 by 3 inch loaf pan. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center tests clean. Cool on a rack, then cover tightly with foil to store or share. Makes 1 loaf; recipe doubles easily for 2 loaves.
