1 c. dates, chopped
1 c. hot water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. shortening oil
1 c. sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 3/4 c. flour
1 tbsp. cocoa
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts, chopped

Mix dates, soda and hot water. Let stand until cool. Add eggs, oil, vanilla and sugar. Sift flour and cocoa and add to date mixture. Mix all together. Sprinkle chips and nuts on top of batter. Bake for 30 minutes at 325 degrees.