WALNUT-DATE LOAF BREAD

1 cup chopped dates 1 cup boiling water 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda 1/4 tsp salt 1 cup chopped walnuts In a mixing bowl, combine the dates, water, and oil. Let stand for 10 minutes; do not drain. Add the brown sugar, egg and vanilla; mix well. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir flour mixture into the date mixture just until combined. Do not beat. Fold in walnuts. Transfer batter into a greased 8-inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 to 65 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool ten minutes before removing from pan. Finish cooling on a wire rack. I believe this is an old recipe from California.

photo from funfoodfrolic.com