Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, transporting you back to cherished memories of Grandma's kitchen. Grandma's Date Nut Bread is not just a recipe; it's a heartfelt tradition that combines the rich sweetness of dates with the delightful crunch of walnuts, creating a loaf that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a cozy snack or a unique addition to your brunch spread, this easy-to-follow recipe will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to bring a piece of nostalgia to your table? Let's dive into the delicious world of Grandma's Date Nut Bread!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
- Gently fold in the chopped dates and walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The bread can be stored wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality dates and walnuts. Medjool dates are particularly sweet and moist, making them a great choice for this recipe.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the perfect texture.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Storage Tips: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just slice it first for easy thawing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
