Dates pecan tea bread is a warm, inviting loaf that’s perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. With its rich, naturally sweet flavor from dates and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, this bread feels both comforting and elegant. Whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert, it’s a wholesome treat that delivers both flavor and texture in every bite.
What makes this tea bread so delightful is the way the ingredients work together. The dates, often soaked in hot water or brewed tea to soften, create a moist texture and caramel-like sweetness. Pecans, on the other hand, add a toasty, buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb of the bread. A touch of brown sugar and a hint of vanilla or cinnamon can enhance the flavor, giving the loaf a gently spiced, earthy undertone.
The batter for dates pecan tea bread is usually quick to prepare, made with pantry staples like flour, baking soda, eggs, and oil or butter. Once baked, the loaf develops a golden crust while staying tender and moist inside. It slices easily, holds its shape, and stores well for several days — in fact, the flavor deepens after a day or two, making it even better with time.
This bread is especially enjoyable during the cooler months when its warm, nutty aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift, wrapped in parchment and twine. Serve it as-is or with a smear of butter or cream cheese for a touch of richness. Some variations include chopped apples, orange zest, or a drizzle of glaze on top, but even the simplest version is deeply satisfying.
Dates pecan tea bread is a lovely nod to traditional baking — a sweet, nutty loaf that brings comfort and charm to any table.

Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped dates pitted and roughly chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda to soften dates
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecans chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the cooled date mixture to the sugar and butter mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just blended. Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This bread is so yummy! The dates give it a nice sweetness. Definitely a keeper.🍞
I followed the recipe exactly but my bread came out super dense. What did I do wrong? 🤔
Never tried dates in bread before. Sounds weird but I’m curious. Anyone else ever made this?
I’ve made this before and it was unexpectedly delicious! The dates add a nice sweetness. You should definitely try it!
Yummy bread but why boiling watter? Can’t we use cold? 😕
Why would you boil the water? Seems silly. I just use cold water for everything hehe.
Boiling water helps to soften the dates, making them easier to mix in. Cold water wouldn’t do that. Trust me, it’s necessary! 😊
I can’t believe how easy this was! Will make again for sure.
This was a disaster. I burnt it because I didn’t check the oven time. Can you please make the instructions clearer?
Not my favorite. The flavor was kinda strange, but the texture is nice.
Dates? Really? I thought it was a cake! Anyway, it tastes okay.
I dunno, I’m not really into dates. They taste funny to me. I would like it better with chocolate instead.
I think it’s super tasty! Dates add a unique flavor that makes it special. Maybe try it warm, it’s the best!
Delicious! This bread is so moist and flavorful. Everyone loved it at the tea party!
I followed the recipe exactly and mine came out really dry. What did I do wrong?
Is this gluten-free? Asking for my friend who’s got some allergy.
Fantastic bread! Just baked it today and the smell is divine!
Thanks for sharing the recipe! I’m going to try it this weekend. Can’t wait!
My kids love it! They didn’t even notice the dates. Haha! Perfect with tea. 😊
Best pecan bread! Next time I will add chocolate chips! 🎉
This bread is unbelievably good! The dates and pecans make a perfect combo. 5 stars!
Is it necessary to soak the dates? Doesn’t seem like it would matter much.
I dunno, I never soaked mine and it turned out fine. Just mash ’em up!
Soaking the dates helps to soften them and makes them easier to mix into the batter. It really does matter for the texture of the bread!
Delicious! I also added some chocolate chips, so good!
Amazin! just like my grandma used to make. 😍
I had to substitute walnuts for pecans since I was out. Still very good! Would recommend.
The recipe says 1 cu of dates but that seems a lot? Mine came out a bit too sweet.
1 cup is fine, I use a whole bunch of dates all the time! It taste great, just balance it out with less sugar.
I think it’s just how dates are! They can be really sweet. Maybe reduce the sugar next time?
I’m not much of a baker but this was easy and turned out great! Thanks!
So glad to hear it turned out great for you! Baking can be intimidating, but this recipe is super forgiving. Enjoy your tea bread!