Instructions:

Cola Date Loaf

Makes 1 loaf.

1 (12 ounce) can diet cola beverage
1 (8 ounce) package pitted dates, coarsely chopped
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a medium saucepan, bring the cola to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the dates, brown sugar, and oil; mix well. Set aside to cool.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon; stir to mix well. Add the flour mixture to the cola mixture, then stir in the egg and vanilla extract until well blended. Spoon the batter into the loaf pan.

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before removing from the pan.