Preheat the oven to 350°.

Grease and flour the bottom only of a loaf pan; set aside.

In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy; beat in the eggs until well blended.

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk to the large bowl, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the dates, nuts, and orange peel (if using).

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until done.

Cool for about 10 minutes; then remove the bread from the loaf pan and continue to cool on a wire rack.