Billy Ann's Date Picnic Cake

I volunteered to bake this cake for a Relief Society activity this week. A woman in my ward is a very talented cook and shared this recipe.

Billy Ann's Date Picnic Cake

1 heaping cup pitted dates-- chopped

1 1/2 cups boiling water

1 tsp baking soda

Pour water over dates and add the soda.

Let stand until cool.

Cream together:

1 cup sugar

3/4 cup shortening

2 eggs

Mix well, and add the date mixture.

Sift together:

1 1/2 cups plus 2 tbsp flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

Add to the first mixture. Add 2 tsp vanilla.

Pour into greased 9 x 13 pan.

Sprinkle over the top:

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup chopped nuts

1/2 cup chocolate bits (Billy Ann says get the good stuff)

Bake 34-40 minutes at 350 degrees.