Ingredients

16 ounces dates chopped (I used 2-8 ounce packages of Dole California whole pitted dates)
2 Cups boiling water
2 Tablespoons butter
2 Cups sugar
1 Tablespoon vanilla
2 large eggs
3 Cups flour
2 Teaspoons baking soda
1 Cup walnuts or pecans chopped (optional)

Instructions

Chop the dates into 1/2" pieces with a kitchen scissors. Place chopped dates in a medium mixing bowl and pour the 2 cups of boiling water over the dates. Let stand for 30 minutes to soften the dates.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 2 (9" x 5" x 3") loaf pans.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter, sugar, vanilla, and eggs.
Add the dates and water.
Stir in the flour and baking soda and mix just until incorporated.
Stir in the chopped nuts.
Divide batter in half and spread into two loaf pans.
Bake at 350 degrees for one hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serve date nut bread plain or with butter on top, just slightly warm for breakfast or brunch.
Notes
Makes 2 loaf pans of date bread.
Makes 8-12 servings.

quick breads