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Classic Date and Walnut Loaf

Classic Date and Walnut Loaf is rich, tender, and pleasantly sweet, with soft bits of dates throughout and a toasty crunch from walnuts. The crumb is moist and dense yet slices cleanly, making it perfect with coffee or tea, for brunch spreads, or as an after-dinner treat. Its warm vanilla notes and balanced sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser any time of day.

  • Prep40 mins
  • Cook1 hr
  • Serves24
  • DifficultyMedium
Classic Date and Walnut Loaf
  1. 1

    Mix the baking soda with the boiling water. Soak the dates in this baking soda and water mixture for 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Cream the sugar and butter together. Add the eggs, vanilla, dates with their soaking liquid, nuts, flour, and salt.

  3. 3

    Divide the batter evenly between two 9x5-inch greased loaf pans (or three 8 1/2x4 1/2-inch greased loaf pans). Bake for 1 hour at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) or until the loaf tests done. Freeze if desired once cool.