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Moist Date Nut Bread

Name: Moist Date Nut Bread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups dried pitted dates; 1 1/2 cups boiling water; 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar,; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 large egg, (at room temperature); 1 Tbsp brandy, (optional); 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour,; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped, (for batter); 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped, (for topping)

By: Samantha Pickthall Published May 6, 2026May 6, 2026

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If you love a moist, rich date nut loaf but want a little crunch and contrast, this Moist Date Nut Bread is for you. It’s a soft, satisfying twist on my Best Moist Date Loaf, with chopped walnuts folded through the batter and sprinkled on top for extra texture.

A touch of brandy is optional, it bakes into a beautifully fluffy and moist loaf. Whether you’re after a tea-time dessert or something simple for weekday snacking, this date bread with walnuts is a crowd-pleaser.

It’s the Crunch for Me.

I’ve been baking my classic date loaf for years, and it’s one of the most loved recipes on here. But sometimes, I want that extra crunch, so I added walnuts! Sam x

Soft, fluffy crumb – Bakes up tender and moist that holds together beautifully while remaining so soft.
Crunchy walnut contrast – Walnuts run through the batter and sit on top for added texture and flavor.
Rich, nostalgic flavour – Dates and brown sugar melt together into a warm caramel-style bread that feels comforting and classic.

Why this recipe works

This date walnut bread keeps everything you love about a classic moist date loaf while adding texture, warmth, and a crunch in every bite.

Soft, Moist Crumb:
Soaked dates and olive oil create a tender, fluffy loaf that stays moist for days without drying out.

Nutty Flavor Throughout:
Walnuts are folded into the batter and scattered on top, giving contrast to the soft, caramel-like crumb.

Deep Caramel Flavour:
Brown sugar and softened dates melt together during baking, creating rich, nostalgic flavour in every slice.

Ingredients you’ll need

Dried pitted dates
The naturally sweet base of the loaf

Boiling water
Softens dates and builds moisture

All-purpose flour
Gives structure and light texture

Baking soda + baking powder
Helps the loaf rise and stay fluffy

Brown sugar
Adds depth and caramel flavour

Extra virgin olive oil
Keeps the loaf soft and moist

Egg
Helps bind and structure the batter

Walnuts (batter + topping)
Adds crunch, texture, and nutty richness

Brandy (optional)
Adds warmth and depth of flavour

How to make moist date nut bread

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, add chopped dates and cover them with the boiling water. Let them stand for 10 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Whisk the sugar, oil, egg and the brandy (optional – if using) directly into the bowl with the softened dates and their soaking liquid.

Step 3: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda and the salt. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until incorporated, ensuring not to over-mix.

Step 4: Fold through the first measurement of chopped walnuts (1 cup).

Step 5: Pour the batter into a prepared loaf tin. Scatter the second measurement of chopped walnuts (1/4 cup) on top of the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.

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Wondering what else to do with dates?

If you enjoy this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐️ star rating and a comment review below. I love to hear what you think and it’s much appreciated. Thank you! Your email address will not be published. Sam x