1/4 c. cold water
1 pkg. plain gelatin
1/2 c. sugar
1 3/4 c. hot coffee, NOT INSTANT
1/2 c. chopped dates
Cool Whip

Pour plain gelatin into cold water; let stand until dissolved, about 5 minutes. Mix sugar into coffee; add gelatin mixture. Stir until dissolved. Add dates; pour into 1 quart bowl. Chill in refrigerator about 3 hours. Serve with Cool Whip if desired.