1 c. hot water
1 (8 oz.) pkg. dates
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. cocoa
1 3/4 c. flour
1 (12 oz.) chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped nuts
1 tsp. vanilla

Pour 1 cup hot water over dates. Cut into fine pieces. Add baking soda. Cream butter, sugar, and eggs. Add cocoa and flour.

Pour in date mixture. Add vanilla. Put into greased square pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and nuts. Bake 30-35 minutes at 350 degrees. Sprinkle powdered sugar while warm.