Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Date Nut Bread
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or as part of a decadent dessert.
- Rich and Flavorful: Naturally sweet dates and toasty nuts create a perfect balance.
- Moist and Tender: The perfect texture makes it irresistible.
- Perfectly Nostalgic: A comforting treat that brings back memories.
Tools You’ll Need
- Spatula: For folding in the nuts and dates.
- Mixing bowls: For wet and dry ingredients.
- Loaf pan (9×5-inch): For baking the bread.
- Whisk or electric mixer: To cream the butter and sugar.
Grandma’s Date Nut Bread
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
This timeless recipe for Grandma’s Date Nut Bread is a warm hug in loaf form. Sweet, sticky dates and crunchy nuts come together in a moist, rich bread that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a holiday treat. Simple yet deeply comforting, it’s a classic that will never go out of style.
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Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water: To soften the dates.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Optional, for a warm spice note.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Dates
- Place the chopped dates in a small bowl. Pour the boiling water over them and let them sit for 10 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the soaked dates and their liquid. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped nuts gently with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Use Fresh Dates: The fresher the dates, the more moist and flavorful your bread will be.
- Toast the Nuts: Toast the walnuts or pecans lightly before folding them in for enhanced flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 55-65 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use other nuts or omit them?
A: Absolutely! Swap walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts, or skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour.
Q3: What can I substitute for brown sugar?
A: Use white granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses, or replace it with coconut sugar for a natural option.
Conclusion: A Classic Worth Savoring
Grandma’s Date Nut Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of culinary nostalgia that warms both the heart and the stomach. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s a must-try for any baking enthusiast.
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us online—we’d love to see how it turned out!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 55-65 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Bake a loaf of this comforting classic and enjoy every sweet, nutty bite!
