1 1/4 c. chopped dates
1 c. hot water
1 c. softened butter
1 1/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts (optional)

Mix dates and hot water and set aside to cool. Beat butter, sugar and eggs until creamy. Stir in gradually the flour and baking soda. Add the date mixture (water and dates) and vanilla, mixing thoroughly. Add all the chocolate chips or you can reserve some to sprinkle on top after batter is in the pan. Spread in greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan. Top with reserved chocolate chips and nuts (optional).

Bake in preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes. Cool, cut and enjoy.