2 c. chopped pitted dates
2 tbsp. baking soda
2 c. boiling water
2 c. sugar
2 tbsp. butter
2 eggs, beaten
2 1/2 c. sifted cake flour
1 to 1 1/2 c. chopped walnuts (optional)
2 tsp. vanilla

Heat oven to 350°F.

Grease and flour 9x13-inch cake pan. In medium bowl, combine dates, baking soda and water; mix well. Set aside to cool.

In large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs; mix well. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. Add flour, walnuts and vanilla to date mixture; mix well. Add cooled dates mixture; stir. Pour mixture into prepared pan.

Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool. Frost, if desired.

Makes 16 servings.