Cheddar Date Nut Loaf Recipe

8 oz. dates; finely chopped
2 tbsp butter
3/4 c. water; boiling
1 3/4 c. unbleached flour, sifted
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1 egg, well beaten
4 oz. Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 c. walnuts, chopped

Place the dates and butter in a small bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let stand 5 minutes. Stir the dry ingredients together in large bowl. Add the date mixture, egg, cheddar and nuts. Mix until just blended and spoon into a well greased 9 x 5 loaf pan. Let stand 20 minutes. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes in a preheated oven at 325; or till wooden pick comes out clean. Turn onto wire rack and cook before slicing. (Flavor improves if wrapped and left overnight.)