1 1/2 c. chopped dates
1 1/2 c. water
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. white sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 c. flour

TOPPING:

1/2 c. sugar
6 oz. pkg. M&M'S® candies (or more)
1/2 c. chopped walnuts (optional)

Bring dates and water to boil. Remove from heat and add soda SLOWLY and stir (this mixture will foam up and rise when soda is added). In separate bowl mix shortening, sugar, vanilla, eggs, salt, baking powder and flour. This batter will be thick. Add boiled mixture and mix well. Pour into well greased 9 x 12 inch pan. Sprinkle top of cake with 1/4 cup sugar, then cover with a layer of M&M'S®. Sprinkle with walnuts, if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Can be served with whipped cream.