1/2 c. chopped fresh pitted dates
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
3 tbsp. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
Pinch salt
1-2/3 c. flour
3 scant tsp. baking powder
1/2 c. chopped and floured walnuts
Strong coffee
Powdered sugar
Red and Green sprinkles

Cook dates in boiling water with soda until soft; set aside. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, salt and nuts; mix well. Stir together flour and baking powder. Add alternately to egg mixture with date mixture. Pour into metal 8 x 8 inch pan and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Combine strong coffee with powdered sugar for a mocha-like frosting. When cake is cool, put on a plate and frost. Sprinkle top with red and green sprinkles.

Yields 9 pieces.