West Haven Chocolate Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Combine dates, baking soda, and boiling water in a small bowl.
2. 2
   Cool to room terperature.
3. 3
   Sift together the flour, cocoa, and salt; set aside.
4. 4
   Cream the shortening and sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer at medium speed.
5. 5
   Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. 6
   Blend in date mixture.
7. 7
   Then stir in dry ingredients.
8. 8
   Pour into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
9. 9
   Bake in preheated 350 degree F. oven for 35 minutes or until cake tests done.
10. 10
    Cool in pan on rack.
11. 11
    Cut into squares and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.