<p>Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have garnered significant interest due to their excellent biocompatibility, chemical inertness, and high resistance to photobleaching. Their optical properties can be finely tuned through size control, chemical doping, and functionalization for targeted applications. In this study, water-soluble fluorescent CQDs were synthesized via hydrothermal carbonization using natural agricultural waste—date pits—as the carbon source. The resulting CQDs exhibited a prominent absorption peak at 280 nm and emitted deep blue fluorescence. The objective was to develop a gelatin-based carbon quantum dot nanocomposite (G-CQDs) through chemical cross-linking. The nanocomposite hydrogels were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical strength testing. Additionally, water uptake, in vitro biodegradation, bioactivity, cytotoxicity, and swelling behavior were assessed over various time intervals. Notably, all samples showed significant swelling within the first hour; while the unmodified gelatin hydrogel reached a swelling ratio of approximately 1011%, the G-25D nanocomposite exhibited a slower swelling ratio between 765–770%. These findings suggest that the incorporation of CQDs derived from date pits enhances the mechanical stability, bioactivity, and biocompatibility of gelatin hydrogels. Consequently, the developed nanocomposite scaffolds present a promising sustainable biomaterial for bone tissue engineering applications.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>