Moist Date Nut Bread

Moist Date Nut Bread

There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of freshly baked date nut bread paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. If you’ve ever enjoyed the classic British figgy pudding, you’ll find this moist date nut bread to be its less sweet, spice-free American cousin. The natural sweetness of dates combined with the earthy crunch of walnuts creates a delightful texture contrast that has made this recipe a beloved staple in kitchens across generations.

The Secret to Perfect Date Nut Bread

What sets this particular recipe apart is its incredible moistness. Unlike some dry, crumbly versions you may have encountered, this date nut bread stays delightfully tender thanks to a clever technique: soaking the chopped dates in boiling water with butter before incorporating them into the batter. This simple step allows the dates to soften completely and release their natural sugars, infusing the entire loaf with sweetness and moisture.

For those who prefer an even moister version reminiscent of traditional steamed puddings, you can cover the loaf with buttered foil and create a gentle steaming effect during baking. This technique transforms the already delicious bread into something truly spectacular – perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.

Versatility in Baking Containers

While a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan produces excellent results, this adaptable recipe offers creative alternatives. Many home bakers have successfully used a 28-ounce can for baking, creating a distinctive cylindrical loaf that makes for impressive presentation when sliced. (Though as one reviewer noted, be sure to fill cans only about three-quarters full to prevent overflow!) Others have divided the batter into muffin tins for individual portions perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacking.

A Time-Tested Favorite

With an impressive rating of 4.6 stars from 115 reviewers, this recipe has clearly won the hearts of home bakers everywhere. The 99 detailed reviews and 17 photos submitted by the community speak volumes about its reliability and deliciousness. Originally shared by “Canadian Girl” and recently updated in January 2023, this recipe continues to evolve through the collective wisdom of those who’ve made it their own.

Ingredients That Create Magic

What makes this date nut bread so special is its straightforward ingredient list – simple components that transform into something extraordinary when combined:

• 2 ½ cups chopped dates: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and moist texture
• ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and helps tenderize the crumb
• 1 cup boiling water: The key to softening the dates and creating moisture
• ½ cup packed brown sugar: Contributes depth with its molasses notes
• 1 large egg: Provides structure and richness
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our bread
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Creates lift when reacting with the acidic ingredients
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures proper rising
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors
• 1 cup chopped walnuts: Adds essential textural contrast and nutty flavor

The Perfect Balance

What many appreciate about this recipe is its balanced sweetness. Unlike commercial quick breads that can be cloyingly sweet, this date nut bread relies primarily on the natural sugars in the dates, complemented by just a moderate amount of brown sugar. This makes it appropriate for breakfast or afternoon tea, and even suitable for those who prefer less sugary treats.

The Method Behind the Magic

The preparation process is straightforward but strategic. By starting with the date soaking process, we ensure maximum flavor development and moisture. Here’s the step-by-step approach:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with grease and flour to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates and butter, then pour boiling water over them. This critical step initiates the softening process. Let this mixture stand until completely cool – patience here rewards you with incredible texture.
3. Once cooled, gently stir the date mixture to break up any clumps that may have formed. The dates should be beautifully softened by now.
4. Add the brown sugar and egg to the date mixture, blending until well combined. The mixture will look somewhat chunky but cohesive.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
6. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the date mixture, stirring just until blended. Overmixing at this stage can develop the gluten too much, resulting in a tougher texture, so a gentle hand is key.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
8. Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, smoothing the top for even baking.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean – the definitive test for doneness.

Community Wisdom and Variations

What makes this recipe truly special is how the community of home bakers has embraced and adapted it to suit their preferences. The review section reveals a treasure trove of successful variations:

Some creative bakers have substituted brewed coffee for the boiling water, adding depth and subtle complexity to the flavor profile. Others have swapped olive oil for butter, creating a dairy-free version with its own unique character.

For those with dietary considerations, successful experiments with alternative flours have been reported. While the texture changes slightly, the fundamental appeal of the bread remains intact.

Nut preferences vary widely among reviewers – many have substituted pecans for the traditional walnuts with excellent results. The slightly sweeter flavor of pecans pairs beautifully with the caramel notes of the dates.

Those watching their sugar intake have successfully reduced both the sugar and salt content without sacrificing flavor. And for spice lovers, a touch of cinnamon makes for a warming variation perfect for fall and winter months.

One particularly clever storage tip comes from a reviewer who wrapped the still-warm loaf in waxed paper followed by foil, then refrigerated it overnight. This method reportedly intensified the flavors and further improved the already impressive moisture content.

Nutritional Profile

For those mindful of nutritional content, each serving (assuming 12 slices per loaf) provides approximately:

• 279 calories
• 10g fat (3g saturated)
• 26mg cholesterol
• 365mg sodium
• 47g carbohydrates
• 4g dietary fiber
• 30g sugars
• 4g protein

The dates contribute significant nutritional benefits beyond just sweetness, providing fiber, potassium, and various micronutrients. Combined with the protein and healthy fats from the walnuts, this bread offers more substantial nutrition than many sweet treats.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this moist date nut bread reaches new heights when paired thoughtfully. A light spread of cream cheese transforms it into a more substantial snack. For breakfast, try toasting a slice and adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

For entertaining, consider serving thin slices alongside a cheese board – the sweetness of the bread complements sharp cheeses beautifully. And for dessert, a warm slice topped with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a simple yet impressive finale to a meal.

The Verdict from Home Kitchens

With 232 home cooks having made and reviewed this recipe, the consensus is clear – this is indeed a “keeper!” as one enthusiastic reviewer declared. Descriptions like “worth the effort,” “great flavors,” and simply “delicious!” appear repeatedly throughout the comments section.

What’s particularly noteworthy is how many reviewers mention that this bread has become a tradition in their households, served year after year during holidays or special gatherings. Some have even reported that family members request it as gifts – a true testament to its exceptional quality.

Beyond the Basic Recipe

If you enjoy this moist date nut bread, you might also appreciate similar recipes that build on its fundamental appeal. Consider exploring variations like Banana Date Flaxseed Bread for additional nutrition, Date and Fig Quick Bread for complex fruity notes, or Sweet Moist Apple Bread for a seasonal autumn treat.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at quick breads for the first time, this moist date nut bread promises reliable results and exceptional flavor. The simple techniques and readily available ingredients make it accessible to all, while the rich flavor profile and moist texture ensure it will impress even the most discerning palates.

From breakfast to dessert, as a homemade gift or a personal indulgence, this time-tested recipe deserves a place in your regular baking rotation. With each slice offering the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and nutty texture, it’s no wonder this humble loaf has earned its reputation as a classic that truly stands the test of time.

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