1 cup cooking dates, chopped
1 cup boiling water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil/vegetable shortening
1-3/4 cups all purpose white flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup brown sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Combine dates, water and oil or shortening. Let cool.

Combine the baking soda with the flour and mix well. Add the brown sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, salt and nuts to the date mixture. Mix well. Gently fold in the flour and baking soda mixture. If too dry, add a little more water.

Bake in greased muffin pans at 325°F for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Makes 12 muffins.