1 cup chopped pitted dates
1 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup shortening (e.g., Crisco)
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 tsp baking soda
Topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350F. Spray an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick spray.
Combine dates, baking powder and boiling water in a bowl. Set aside.
In an electric stand mixer, blend shortening, sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. In another bowl, mix together flour, salt and baking soda.
Alternately add the flour mixture and date mixture to the mixer and mix on low speed just until blended. Spread batter evenly in prepared baking pan. Sprinkle brown sugar and chocolate chips over top.
Bake at 350 F for 45 to 50 minutes, until cake tests done.
Recipe can be doubled and baked in a 9 x 13-inch pan about 55 to 60 minutes.