2 c. boiling water
5 tsp. baking soda
1 c. shortening
2 1/2 c. sugar
4 eggs
1 tbsp. salt
2 c. 40% Bran Flakes
4 c. All Bran cereal
2 c. dates, chopped
1 c. nuts, chopped
1 qt. buttermilk
5 c. flour

Mix boiling water and soda; let cool. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time and beat until fluffy. Mix in cooled soda water and add cereals, nuts and dates. Add alternately buttermilk, flour and salt. Store, covered in refrigerator. Take out by spoonful. Do not stir. Will keep for 6 weeks. Bake for 20 minutes in 400 degree oven.