Cook 1 cup chopped dates in 1/2 cup water until thick. Stir to smooth paste; let cool.

1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. lard
3/4 c. granulated sugar

Add 2 eggs and blend well.

2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2/3 c. milk with 1 1/2 tbsp. vinegar (let stand to sour)

Cream butter and lard and add sugar; cream well. Blend in eggs. Add cooled date paste and vanilla. Blend in dry ingredients and sour milk alternately, ending with dry ingredients. Bake in 9-inch greased tube pan 55-60 minutes. (1/2 cup chopped nuts may be added if desired) Dust with powdered sugar or use a thin icing.