Chop dates into tiny pieces and chop walnuts roughly. Toast walnuts lightly to enhance their nutty flavor before adding them.
Boil full-fat milk and keep it on a low heat. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and to create a natural creamy consistency.
Put soaked basmati rice in the milk. Stir carefully and cook until the rice becomes soft and begins to blend with the milk.
Add chopped dates and a pinch of sugar. The dates will soften slightly, imparting a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Add a pinch of cardamom powder for fragrance.
After the kheer thickens, add the toasted walnuts and stir. Cook for another couple of minutes, then turn off the heat and serve warm or cold.