Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread

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Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread has a cozy, homemade flavor that’s slightly sweet from the dates, with a nutty crunch that adds texture to every bite. This bread bakes up tender and moist, perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or served with a bit of butter and coffee. I also bake up a batch for gifts during the holidays.

Close-up of stacked slices of Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread, showing a dense texture with chopped dates and nuts, garnished with a mint leaf on top.

๐ŸžOld Fashioned Date Nut Bread

One thing we like about this recipe is how the dates keep the bread moist. The nuts add just enough crunch to balance the texture.

PMc says:

Soak the dates in warm water before adding them to the batter. It helps soften them and brings out more sweetness. You can also toast the nuts lightly before mixing them in for extra flavor.

Close-up of several pecan date bars, some stacked and some lying flat, on parchment paper with a sprig of mint nearby.

๐Ÿฅฌ๐Ÿฅ—๐Ÿ’ชOld Fashioned Date Nut Bread Nutritional Value

Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread is a good source of fiber from the dates and nuts, and it offers some natural sweetness without being too heavy. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift. Wrapped in parchment or a loaf bag with a simple ribbon, it looks special and tastes like something made with care.

Here are more recipes using dates: Healthy Oatmeal Date Breakfast Cookies are yummy and so easy to make; Sticky Toffee Date Cake with Caramel Sauce has been around forever, it’s simple yet delish; Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe and Almond Butter Stuffed Dates make an excellent snack or charcuterie board addition.

Close-up of sliced pecan date loaf bars on parchment paper, showing a dense texture with visible chunks of pecan and date.

๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿผโ€๐ŸณCooking Tips and Substitutions

โ€ข Use fresh, soft dates for the best texture. If your dates are dry, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes.
โ€ข You can use walnuts, pecans, or almonds depending on what you prefer or already have at home.
โ€ข If you like a lighter flavor, replace part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
โ€ข This bread freezes well. Slice it first, then wrap it tightly before freezing so you can grab a piece anytime.
โ€ข Bake until the center is firm and a toothpick comes out clean. Overbaking can dry it out.

Close-up of several Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread with visible nuts and a golden-brown crumb, arranged on a sheet of parchment paper.

Why you’ll โค๏ธ this recipe.

๐ŸฅชSimple to make with everyday ingredients

๐Ÿ’ฆMoist and rich flavor from natural sweetness

๐ŸŽGreat for breakfast, snacks, or gifting

โŒ›Keeps well for several days

๐Ÿ ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿผโ€๐ŸณFeels homemade and comforting

Close-up of stacked Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread topped with a sprig of fresh mint, surrounded by scattered pecan halves on a wooden surface.

โ“Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store date nut bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to three months.

Can I make it without nuts?

Yes, the bread still turns out great without nuts. You can add a few extra chopped dates instead for texture.

Can I substitute another nut for pecans?

Yes, absolutely. Walnuts would be wonderful, but you can use any nut.

Is it supposed to be dense?

Yes. Date Nut Bread is meant to be a bit dense and moist. Thatโ€™s part of its charm and what makes it so good with coffee or tea.

Stacked Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread with visible pecan pieces and a sprig of mint on top, resting on parchment paper with additional pecans in the foreground.

๐ŸŽFor Gifting

There are various ways you can wrap bread for a gift. This Pinterest video uses parchment, string, and a name tag. In comparison, this creator makes it a little more decorative. The short video below walks you through the process of wrapping.

Here are a few products that I’ve used to make it pretty.

    ๐Ÿ›‘Conclusion

    Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread is one of those recipes that feels like Grandma’s kitchen. (Much like our favorite ONE POT CHEESY CHICKEN.๐Ÿ˜‹) Itโ€™s simple, wholesome, and comforting. Once you make it, it will become a regular part of your baking routine. You can share, gift, or enjoy on a quiet morning with your favorite coffee.

    Close-up of stacked pecan praline bars topped with a sprig of fresh mint, surrounded by scattered pecan halves on a wooden surface.

    Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread

    Moist and comforting Old Fashioned Date Nut Bread made with sweet dates and crunchy nuts, perfect for breakfast or gifting.
    Author: Paula
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    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
    Servings: 12 servings

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    Ingredients

    Instructions

    • 9×9 pan 300โ„‰ for 75 minutes
    • Beat together th eggs, sugar, and oil. Add the dry ingredients and mix together well.
      1 cup sugar, 4 large eggs, ยฝ cup oil, 1 cup self-rising flour, 4 cups pecans, 1 pound dates
    • Pour into a greased and floured loaf pan (9x5x3) and place in a cold oven. Turn on the oven to 300 and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until cake is firmin the middle.
    • Let cool completely. Remove from the pan and slice with a very sharp knife. Or, wrap and freeze for slicing and serving later. Makes a 3 pound loaf.

    Notes

    You’ll also enjoy this Sticky Toffee Date Cake.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 543kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 417mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 112IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 2mg

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