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Classic Date Nut Bread Recipe

Classic Date Nut Bread Recipe

Classic Date Nut Bread is a comforting, moist, and tender baked treat that harmoniously blends the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of toasted nuts. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy-to-make bread offers rich caramel flavors, a soft crumb, and versatility to be customized according to your preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Nuts

  • 1 cup chopped dates
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Sugars and Fats

  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or 1/2 cup oil)

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates: Chop the dates finely and soak them in warm water or coffee for about 10-15 minutes to plump them up, ensuring they stay moist and tender in the bread.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create an evenly leavened base.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy and light, which aerates the batter and contributes to a tender crumb.
  4. Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, then gradually add the milk or buttermilk to ensure a smooth, consistent batter.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to keep the bread light and soft.
  6. Add Dates and Nuts: Fold in the soaked dates along with the chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly for delightful chunks in every bite.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

  • Soak dates properly to avoid dry spots and maximize flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure a light texture.
  • Use freshly toasted nuts for enhanced flavor and crunch.
  • Test doneness starting at 50 minutes with a toothpick.
  • Allow the bread to cool before slicing to help it set.

Nutrition

Keywords: date nut bread, classic bread, baked date bread, moist bread, nut bread, breakfast bread, snack bread