Classic Date Nut Bread Recipe

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for the pan
• 8 ounces chopped dates
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. 2

   Lightly grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan.

3. 3

   Combine the butter and ¾ cup water in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil.

4. 4

   Place dates in a large heat-proof mixing bowl and pour the boiling water and butter mixture over the dates.

5. 5

   Let the mixture sit until the dates are plump, about 15 minutes.

6. 6

   Add the nuts, eggs, and vanilla.

7. 7

   In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

8. 8

   Add the dry ingredients to the date mixture and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined.

9. 9

   Scrape the dough into the prepared pan.

10. 10

    Bake the loaf until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, about 1 hour.

11. 11

    Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

12. 12

    Let it cool to room temperature before serving.

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