Date & Nut Bread is a classic American quick bread that rose in popularity in the early to mid-20th century, when dates became more widely available and home bakers embraced simple, economical loaves. Often served sliced with butter or cream cheese, it bridges the gap between breakfast bread and dessert. The combination of chopped dates and nuts gives the loaf a moist crumb, gentle sweetness, and satisfying texture, while the use of baking soda and hot water reflects traditional pantry-based baking methods. This bread is especially loved for its deep caramel-like flavor, long keeping quality, and versatility, equally welcome at a coffee break, brunch table, or holiday spread.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dates (chopped )
- 1 cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans)
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 ¾ cups bread flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Date Mixture
- Combine chopped dates, nuts, and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Pour boiling water over the mixture and stir.
- Let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Mix Batter
- In a separate bowl, beat sugar and egg together.
- Add melted butter and vanilla.
- Stir in flour and salt.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
- Fold cooled date mixture into batter.
- Pour into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1¼ hours.
Step 4: Cool
- Remove from oven and cool before slicing.
Tips
- Toast slices lightly and serve with butter
- Add orange zest for brightness
- Use pecans for a sweeter nut profile
- Substitute half the flour with whole wheat
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
- Serve with cream cheese
- Wrap tightly to improve flavor next day
- Make mini loaves for gifting
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 22mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 410mgFiber: 4gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 1.5mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1.8mg
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