Date Loaf

by Diana

1 c chopped dates

1 orange, juice and zest (put the orange juice in 1 c measure and fill with boiling water and add to the dates)

2 tbsp melted shortening

1 egg, beaten

Mix and add to the date mixture

2 c flour

¾ c sugar

½ tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

Sift the dry ingredients together and add to the date mixture. Mix lightly. Add 1 tsp vanilla. Put into a loaf pan and let stand for 20 minutes. Bake at 350 deg F for 50-60 minutes. (1/2 c walnuts may be added)