8 oz. pkg. dates
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Sprinkle dates with baking soda and cover with boiling water. Add butter and vanilla. Blend flour, sugar, and salt. Add to date mixture. Add egg. Mix well. Add nuts. Place in well greased 8-inch square pan. Bake 45 minutes at 350°F.

Topping:

1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter
2 tbsp. milk
9 tbsp. brown sugar
1/2 c. coconut

Heat to boiling and spread over top of cake just before it is done. Then brown.