• Prepare the Oven & Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly.
• Soften the Dates: Pour the boiling water over the chopped dates in a bowl and allow them to sit for at least 5 minutes. Do not drain.
• Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter with the sugar until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. Mix in the eggs until well incorporated.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
• Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter-sugar blend, alternating with the soaked dates and their liquid. Stir just enough to combine.
• Add Walnuts & Bake: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, then transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Bake for about 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cooling & Serving: Let the loaf rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If needed, run a knife along the edges to help release the loaf.

Christmas Variation:

• For a more festive take, replace granulated sugar with dark brown sugar. Instead of 1 cup of boiling water, use ¾ cup of boiling water and add ¼ cup of molasses to the dates in step 2. Follow the remaining steps as usual.