Zola's Date Nut Bread

2 c. chopped dates (1/2 lb.)             2 tsp. baking soda

1-1/2 c. boiling water                   1/2 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. melted butter                    1 tsp. vanilla

1 c. sugar                                1 c. chopped walnuts

1 egg                                     1 c. raisins (optional)

2 c. flour


Let dates stand in water 20 minutes. Cream butter, sugar, and egg together. Add dry ingredients to butter mixture. Add nuts and dates. Pour into greased bread pans. Bake 1 hour at 350 deg. Makes 1 large and 1 small loaf. Double batch makes 3 loaves.