Orange Buttermilk Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Grate the orange rind.
2. 2
   Halve oranges, squeeze juice into saucepan.
3. 3
   Add one cup of sugar.
4. 4
   Add the grated rind to the butter.
5. 5
   Add remaining sugar.
6. 6
   Cream until soft and light, using medium speed on mixer.
7. 7
   Add eggs, one at a time; beat until light. Beat in the baking soda, baking powder and flour alternating with the buttermilk.
8. 8
   Mix until smooth.
9. 9
   Fold in dates and nuts.
10. 10
    Turn into a lightly buttered 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
11. 11
    Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
12. 12
    Bring orange juice and sugar to a boil.
13. 13
    Pour the boiling syrup over the hot cake as it comes out of the oven.
14. 14
    Set cake aside to cool completely before cutting into squares.