Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over them, stir, and let them sit for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the cooled date mixture (including the soaking liquid). Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – do not overmix.
Step 7: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts (or pecans) until evenly distributed.
Step 8: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
Step 9: Bake for 50-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.