Mom's Date Pudding Cake

Ingredients

• 1 cup dates, chopped
• 1 cup hot water
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine dates and hot water. Let stand for 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition. Stir in the vanilla. Add the date mixture and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix until just blended. Stir in the walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• This recipe for date pudding cake is a classic American dessert.
• Date pudding cake is a great make-ahead dessert as it can be made up to 3 days in advance.
• You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.