1 c. dates, cut
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 tsp. baking soda

Stir and cover until cool. 1 c. sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 2/3 c. flour 1/2 tsp. baking powder 3 tbsp. cocoa 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla

Mix shortening, sugar, and eggs. Sift flour, baking powder, cocoa, and salt together. Alternate flour with date mixture, add vanilla. Put in 9 x 13 inch pan.

TOPPING:

1/2 c. sugar
1 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts, chopped

Bake 30 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees.