How do I keep my date nut bread from drying out?

To ensure a moist and tender loaf , always soak the dates before using them. Measuring ingredients accurately and avoiding overbaking also helps. If your bread turns out dry, wrap it in plastic wrap while it's still slightly warm to lock in moisture.

Can I make date nut bread without nuts?

Absolutely! Simply leave out the nuts or replace them with dried cranberries, raisins, or shredded coconut for texture. You can also swap in sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch.

What’s the best way to store date nut bread?

Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days . Refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to a week when wrapped tightly. Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

Can I use fresh dates instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh dates contain more moisture . To compensate, slightly reduce the amount of liquid (milk or water) in the recipe. You may also need to chop them finer since they are softer than dried dates.

How can I make my date nut bread healthier?

For a healthier version , try these swaps: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Reduce the sugar and let the dates provide natural sweetness. Swap butter for coconut oil or Greek yogurt for added moisture.

Easy Date Nut Bread Recipe: Moist, Sweet, and Nutty

Description

his best-ever date nut bread recipe is soft, moist, and naturally sweetened with rich, caramel-like dates. Toasted nuts add the perfect crunch, making this an easy and delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this homemade classic is one you’ll bake again and again.

Ingredients

1 cup (150g) pitted dates, chopped
½ cup (120ml) hot water (for soaking the dates)
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
1 large egg
½ cup (120ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (90g) chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, soak the chopped dates in hot water for 10 minutes. This softens them and enhances their sweetness.

2. Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

3. Add the Dates and Nuts
Fold in the soaked dates (including any remaining liquid) and chopped nuts. Do not overmix.

4. Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes.

5. Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: The flavor deepens after a day, making it even better the next morning.
For Extra Moisture: Add 1 tablespoon of yogurt or applesauce to the batter.

Storage:
At room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the fridge: Stays fresh for up to 1 week.
In the freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: date nut bread recipe, homemade date nut bread, easy date bread, moist nut bread