Date nut bread is a classic and delicious loaf that combines sweet dates with crunchy nuts. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped dates
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dates:
    • Place the chopped dates and baking soda in a bowl.
    • Pour the boiling water over them and let it sit for 10 minutes to soften. Stir occasionally.
  2. Preheat oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lightly dust it with flour, or line it with parchment paper.
  3. Cream butter and sugar:
    • In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine dry ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
  5. Mix wet and dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
    • Stir in the softened dates (including their liquid) and the nuts until evenly distributed.
  6. Bake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
    • Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool:
    • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
  • Pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Enjoy your homemade date nut bread! 😊

Image from All Recipes