1 1/2 c. pitted dates
1/2 c. hot milk
3 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
Spice of your choice (opt.)
1 c. packed brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. melted butter
1 c. mashed ripe banana, applesauce or canned pumpkin
1 c. chopped walnuts

In container of electric blender combine 1/2 cup of the dates with the milk. Blend to chop dates, set aside. Sift together flour, baking powder, soda, salt and spice.

In mixing bowl combine sugar, eggs, butter, banana and date-milk mixture. Add dry ingredients, mixing just to blend. Stir in remaining 1 cup dates and nuts. Spoon batter into greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 to 60 minutes until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5 minutes; turn out onto rack to cool completely. Makes 1 loaf.

NOTE: Vary the spice and the fruit you choose. Try 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon with the applesauce; or 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon each nutmeg and cloves or 1 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice with the pumpkin.