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
1/2 c. chopped walnuts, if desired
2 tsp. vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees. 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. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool. Frost, if desired. Serves 16. It tastes like chocolate.