Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates, boiling water, and baking soda. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to soften the dates.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the 1/2 cup softened butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Sift together the flour, baking powder, ground ginger, and cinnamon. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
Step 6: Stir in the soaked date mixture (including the liquid) and the diced pears until just combined.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: While the loaf is baking, prepare the syrup by combining 1/4 cup butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, grated ginger, and 2 tbsp water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 9: Once the loaf is removed from the oven, poke holes across the surface with a skewer and pour half of the warm ginger syrup over the top. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Step 10: Remove the loaf from the pan and serve with the remaining syrup drizzled over individual slices.