Batter:

1 1/2 c. hot water
1 c. dates
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
2 c. all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda

Pour hot water over the dates and baking soda. Let set.

Mix together sugar, butter, flour, eggs, salt and baking soda, then add to the date mixture.

Topping:

1 (6 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts, chopped
1/2 c. sugar

Combine chocolate chips, chopped nuts and sugar then sprinkle over the top of the batter.

Bake at 350°F for approximately 35 minutes in a greased 9x13-inch pan.

Submitted by: Anne Leydon