Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the chopped dates with the orange juice and let them soak while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
Step 5: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients and fold gently until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in the soaked dates (and any remaining juice) along with the chopped walnuts.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.