Sticky Date and Walnut Breakfast Loaf

Sticky date and walnut breakfast loaf with a moist crumb and gentle sweetness. An easy homemade recipe for a warm and satisfying start to the day.

I baked this loaf early one quiet morning when I wanted a breakfast that felt warm and homemade without much fuss. The smell of dates and toasted walnuts filled the kitchen before the coffee was even ready. It is the kind of loaf you slice thick and serve with a little butter while the house slowly wakes up. By the time everyone came into the kitchen, half the pan was already gone.

What I like most about this recipe is the texture. The dates soften into the batter and give the loaf a rich, moist crumb. The walnuts add a gentle crunch that balances the sweetness. It tastes comforting and familiar, like something you remember from years ago. Each slice feels filling and steady, the sort of breakfast that keeps you satisfied all morning.

When I set it on the table, nobody needed much convincing. The slices were warm, slightly sticky, and full of flavor. It worked just as well with coffee as it did with a glass of milk. My family kept coming back for one more piece until only crumbs were left. Recipes like this earn a regular spot in the kitchen without much effort.

Questions you may have about this recipe

Can I make this loaf the night before
Yes. It stays moist overnight and tastes even better the next morning.

Can I use a different nut
Yes. Pecans or almonds work well if you prefer a different flavor.

Do I need to soak the dates
Soaking them in hot water makes them softer and easier to mix into the batter.

Can I freeze this loaf
Yes. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Is this loaf very sweet
It has a gentle sweetness from the dates and a small amount of sugar.

What you need to make Sticky Date and Walnut Breakfast Loaf

1 cup chopped pitted dates

1 cup hot water

1 tsp baking soda

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup chopped walnuts

How to make Sticky Date and Walnut Breakfast Loaf

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.

Place the chopped dates in a bowl. Pour the hot water over them and stir in the baking soda. Let them sit for 10 minutes.

In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until smooth.

Add the eggs and vanilla, then mix until combined.

Stir in the softened date mixture.

Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Add the walnuts and mix gently.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

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

Tips

Chop the dates into small pieces so they spread evenly through the loaf.

Toast the walnuts for a deeper flavor.

Do not overmix the batter or the loaf will turn dense.

Let the loaf cool before slicing for clean pieces.

Reader reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Soft, rich, and perfect with morning coffee.” Janet H

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Nice flavor and simple steps.” Robert L

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My husband asked for this again the next day.” Carol B

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great texture and not overly sweet.” Linda P

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.” David S

Printable Recipe

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