Pioneer Woman Date Nut Bread is a moist, naturally sweet quick bread loaded with tender chopped dates and crunchy walnuts. Perfect with coffee or tea, it’s a cozy homemade loaf that’s easy to whip up and even easier to love. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this comforting classic always hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Date Nut Bread Recipe
- Soft and Moist Texture: Chopped dates melt into the batter, creating a tender crumb with every bite.
- Old-Fashioned Comfort: Made with simple pantry staples and no fancy tools—just wholesome, nostalgic flavor.
- Quick and Reliable: Comes together easily in one bowl and bakes up beautifully every time.
- Versatile Serving: Delicious warm, toasted, plain, or with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
Date Nut Bread Ingredients
- 2½ cups chopped dates
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to Make Date Nut Bread
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Soften Dates: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped dates and butter. Pour the boiling water over them and let sit until slightly cooled.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir the cooled mixture to smooth any lumps. Add brown sugar and egg, and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Make the Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the date mixture just until combined. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Expert Recipe Tips
- Use very soft or soaked dates for the best texture—tough dates can affect moisture levels.
- Mix gently when combining wet and dry ingredients to avoid overworking the batter.
- Room temperature egg and butter blend more smoothly, giving the loaf an even texture.
- Lightly flour your walnuts before folding them in to keep them from sinking to the bottom.
Recipe Variations
- Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
- Chocolate Chip Date Bread: Swap out half the walnuts for ½ cup dark chocolate chips.
- Coconut Infusion: Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut for tropical flair.
- Mini Loaves: Divide into smaller pans and reduce bake time for giftable loaves.
- Vegan Option: Use a flax egg and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Storage Instructions
- In the Fridge: Wrap leftover slices tightly or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- Oven: Wrap slices in foil and heat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 325°F for 2–4 minutes until warmed through.
FAQ’S:
Can I use dried dates instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Just soak them longer in hot water to ensure they soften enough to blend easily into the batter.
Why is boiling water used in this recipe?
Boiling water softens the dates and helps melt the butter, creating a smoother, more cohesive batter.
How do I thaw frozen date nut bread?
Let slices thaw at room temperature for the best texture, or microwave gently for a quicker option.
How can I keep walnuts from sinking in the loaf?
Toss them in a little flour before mixing into the batter to help suspend them more evenly.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and ensure your leavening agents are gluten-free as well.
More Pioneer Woman Recipe:
- Pioneer Woman Lemon Zucchini Bread
- Pioneer Woman Zucchini Pineapple Bread
- Pioneer Woman Lemon Blueberry Bread
Pioneer Woman Date Nut Bread Nutrition Fact:
- Calories: 279
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 26mg
- Sodium: 365mg
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Potassium: 312mg

Pioneer Woman Date Nut Bread
Description
Pioneer Woman Date Nut Bread is a moist, naturally sweet quick bread loaded with tender chopped dates and crunchy walnuts. Perfect with coffee or tea, it’s a cozy homemade loaf that’s easy to whip up and even easier to love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine chopped dates and butter in a bowl. Pour boiling water over and let sit until cooled.
- Stir the mixture, then mix in brown sugar and egg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Stir in walnuts.
- Pour into prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Use softened or soaked dates for best texture.
Don’t overmix the batter.
Toasted or floured walnuts help distribute evenly.