Date Nut Bread: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Date Nut Bread is a timeless, cozy loaf that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Made with sweet dates, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of brown sugar, this quick bread is soft, moist, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. It’s a classic recipe that feels like home , hearty, wholesome, and beautifully simple.

Whether you spread it with butter, cream cheese, or enjoy it plain, this Date Nut Bread makes every slice taste like a comforting hug from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Deep Flavor – Sweet dates and brown sugar create natural caramel notes.
• Moist Texture – Buttermilk and butter keep it perfectly soft.
• Nutty Crunch – Walnuts add a satisfying texture.
• Easy & Quick – No mixer required, just mix and bake.
• Freezer-Friendly – Stays moist even after thawing.

Preparation and Baking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 50–55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates (pitted)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Soak Dates: In a bowl, combine dates, baking soda, and boiling water. Let stand for 10 minutes to soften.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Cream Butter & Sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla.
5. Combine Wet & Dry: Stir in the flour mixture alternately with buttermilk.
6. Add Dates & Nuts: Fold in the soaked dates (with liquid) and walnuts until just combined.
7. Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool & Slice: Cool for 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

Plating Tips: Slice thick and serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
Side Pairings: Perfect with coffee, tea, or a drizzle of honey.
Leftover Uses: Toast slices for breakfast or crumble into yogurt parfaits.
Beverage Pairing: Great with spiced chai, cappuccino, or warm milk.

Additional Tips

• Use Medjool dates for the richest flavor.
• Don’t overmix once you add flour, it keeps the bread tender.
• Add a sprinkle of brown sugar on top for a caramelized crust.

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Skip nuts or replace with sunflower seeds.
• Spiced Date Bread: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for warmth.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet upgrade.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half the flour for whole wheat.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 3 months (wrap tightly in plastic and foil).
• Reheat: Warm slices in a toaster or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Special Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk & spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without buttermilk?
Yes, mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes.

Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all work beautifully.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Bake for about 18–20 minutes instead of 50–55 minutes.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce brown sugar to ½ cup for a lightly sweet version.

Conclusion

Date Nut Bread is the ultimate comfort loaf ,moist, flavorful, and irresistibly homey. With its blend of sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and buttery richness, it’s perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or gifting to friends. This old-fashioned favorite will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

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