DATE CAKE
½ pound pitted dates, coarsely chopped (1½-2 cups)
1 cup boiling water
½ cup shortening
I cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg
1½ cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped walnuts
OVEN 350F
Chop dates, boil water, stir in dates to water, stirring, for about a minute, heating thoroughly.
In a bowl, cream shortening and sugar till light.
Add vanilla and egg to shortening and sugar: beat well.
Sift flour, soda, and salt together; add to creamed mixture alternately with mixture, beating after each addition.
Stir in nuts.
Bake in greased and lightly floured 13x9x2-inch baking pan at 350F for about 25 to 30 minutes, test with toothpick.
If desired, serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
