Great Nana's Secret Ingredient Date Nut Bread

A delicious and moist date nut bread recipe that has been passed down through generations. The secret ingredient, a dash of cinnamon, adds a special touch to this traditional American dessert. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and fluffy.
4. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
5. Fold in the soaked dates and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust the top of the bread with confectioners' sugar before serving.

Interesting Facts