Date Nut Bread
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the rich, moist, and delightful flavors of this vintage Date Nut Bread recipe, straight from grandma's cherished cookbook. Perfectly sweetened with plump dates and complemented by crunchy nuts, this bread is not just a treat but a nostalgic journey to simpler times. It's an ideal companion for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, easily made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
This Date Nut Bread recipe has been passed down through generations, celebrating the comforting and delectable flavors that bring families together.
A Taste of Tradition
Date Nut Bread has been a beloved recipe for generations, cherished for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. This delightful loaf harks back to a time when baking was an everyday ritual, bringing families together. The combination of sweet dates and crunchy nuts creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and indulgent. Each bite transports you to nostalgic memories, perhaps of your grandmother's kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread.
As you bake this Date Nut Bread, you’re not just making a snack; you’re continuing a cherished tradition. Each slice is a reminder of the love and care that goes into homemade treats. This recipe encourages creativity; feel free to experiment with various types of nuts or add spices like cinnamon to personalize it to your taste. Discover how baking can be a delightful journey of creativity and nostalgia.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it's a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon, Date Nut Bread is versatile enough for any time of day. Serve it for breakfast alongside your favorite coffee or tea, and enjoy a perfect start to your day. Alternatively, it makes an excellent afternoon snack when you need a little something sweet to tide you over until dinner. The bread’s moist texture and sweet, nutty flavor will surely satisfy any craving.
This recipe is also an ideal choice for gatherings or potlucks. When shared with friends and family, it will quickly become the star of the table, as everyone will appreciate its homemade touch. Consider wrapping a loaf as a thoughtful gift for loved ones during the holidays or as a friendly gesture to new neighbors. Date Nut Bread not only tastes wonderful but also presents beautifully, offering a heartfelt touch to any occasion.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Date Nut Bread has cooled, consider how to store it for maximum freshness. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last for up to a week at room temperature. For longer-term storage, slice the bread and freeze the individual pieces, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes, perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous snacks.
When serving, consider adding a spread for extra indulgence. A thin layer of cream cheese or butter enhances the flavor while juxtaposing the sweetness of the bread. You could also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a chic presentation. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Date Nut Bread is sure to please, making every moment spent savoring it special.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pitted and chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Prepare the Dates
In a bowl, cover the chopped dates with boiling water and let them sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, then fold in the softened dates and nuts.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy your Date Nut Bread warm or at room temperature.
The Health Benefits of Dates and Nuts
The combination of dates and nuts in this bread not only contributes to its delightful flavor but also packs a healthy punch. Dates are a natural source of energy and contain essential nutrients, including fiber, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. They can help support digestion and promote heart health, making this bread a guilt-free indulgence.
Adding walnuts or pecans brings healthy fats and proteins into the mix, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids and additional fiber. Including this bread in your diet adds a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The health benefits make it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their nutrition while satisfying their sweet tooth.
Tips for Perfecting Your Date Nut Bread
For perfect Date Nut Bread every time, ensure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale if possible, as it provides more consistent results. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Instead, mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Experimenting with different types of nuts or adding dried fruits can elevate your Date Nut Bread. From almonds to pistachios, the possibilities are endless. Consider adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy zing or a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Each variation can transform the classic recipe into something uniquely yours!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze Date Nut Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly.
→ What can I use instead of nuts?
You can omit the nuts or replace them with seeds or dried fruit.
Date Nut Bread
Experience the rich, moist, and delightful flavors of this vintage Date Nut Bread recipe, straight from grandma's cherished cookbook. Perfectly sweetened with plump dates and complemented by crunchy nuts, this bread is not just a treat but a nostalgic journey to simpler times. It's an ideal companion for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, easily made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
Created by: Mia Jefferson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pitted and chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, cover the chopped dates with boiling water and let them sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, then fold in the softened dates and nuts.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g