1 (6 1/2 oz.) pkg. dates
1 c. hot water
1 2/3 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 egg

Pour hot water over cut up dates. Cool. Sift flour, baking soda and salt together. Set aside. Cream shortening, sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and egg. Beat 5 minutes. Add flour mixture alternately with liquid from dates, ending with flour. Fold in dates. Pour into 9 inch square pan, greased and floured.

TOPPING:

1/2 c. semi-sweet chocolate bits
2 tsp. sugar
1/2 c. walnuts, chopped

Sprinkle over bake before baking. Bake 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees.