| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 486 | 9.8g | 1.2g | 92g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 69g | 5g | 8g | 0.58g |
Cracking the crust of this Walnut Date Bread, the mouthwatering aroma wafting up from its warm, hearty center evokes the best memories of my Nebraskan upbringing. This recipe is a sumptuous blend of farm-to-table freshness and Midwestern charm, liberating the essence of rustic homemade bread inherent to the heartland.
A Healthy Delight
What makes this recipe an absolute favorite is not just its mouthwatering taste, but also the wholesome nutritional benefits it offers. With nutrient-packed walnuts and fiber-rich dates, every slice of this bread is a testament to the saying “good food, good mood.”
The dates contribute to high fiber content, aiding digestion and potentially reducing cholesterol levels. On the other hand, the walnuts are replete with heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and a modest amount of protein. Eggs, incorporated in the mix, add a commendable supply of Vitamin B.
Resonating Tradition and Variety
While the Walnut Date Bread is impeccable on its own, it seamlessly complements other dishes too. Picture enjoying a slice with a peaceful Sunday morning cup of coffee, or perhaps with a warm bowl of American cheese soup on a cold winter night—it simply elevates the entire experience.
This recipe also shares a delightful similarity with the holiday favorite Date Nut Bread. Yet, it offers a unique twist with the addition of walnuts, providing a crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, moist bread interior.
In the end, every loaf of Walnut Date Bread that emerges from the oven serves as a love letter to my origins—baked, quite literally, with Midwestern love, faith, and a strong sense of community at its very heart.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of chopped dates
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Method
Step One
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and greasing a 9×5 inch loaf pan. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped dates and 1 cup of boiling water. Let this mixture stand until the dates are softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of baking soda and set the bowl to one side.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Gradually beat in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until just combined.
Step Three
Stir the date and water mixture into the flour mixture until blended. Then fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan.
Step Four
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 60 to 70 minutes. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing it to cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into slices, serve, and enjoy your walnut date bread!
