Date Pudding

1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1 c. chopped dates
1 c. sugar
1 egg
3 TBS. melted butter
1 c. flour
1 c. nuts
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt

Dissolve soda in boiling water - pour over dates. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes. Beat together the sugar, egg, and butter. Add flour, nuts, vanilla, and salt. Add date mixture; beat well. Bake in 9x9-inch pan for 35 to 40 minutes at 350*. It will have a moist shiny appearance when it is done. Serve warm with whipped cream.

If doubled, put into 9x13-inch pan.