2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1 c. coarsely chopped dates
1 c. coarsely chopped walnuts
1 c. sugar
1 c. mayonnaise
6 tbsp. grated unsweetened chocolate
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. unsifted cake flour

Grease and flour a 9x9x2-inch baking pan. In a small bowl stir baking soda and boiling water until dissolved. Stir in dates and nuts.

In large bowl with mixer at low speed beat sugar and real mayonnaise until well blended. Add chocolate and vanilla. Beat until blended. Add date mixture. Beat until well mixed. Gradually beat in flour until smooth. Turn into prepared pan.

Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan. Frost if desired.

Makes 9 servings.