STICKY DATE PUDDING 2 1/2 cups chopped dates 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 cup butter at room temperature, cut into small pieces 1/2 cup sugar 4 eggs 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour 2 teaspoons salt 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 heaping tablespoon baking powder Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter an 8 x 8-inch pan.

Place dates in a saucepan. Cover with water and bring to boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for an additional 3 minutes, then add baking soda. Let cool, then drain, reserving 1 cup of date liquid.

Cream butter and sugar, then beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in flour, salt and vanilla and combine, then add baking powder and reserved date liquid. Add dates and stir to combine.

Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until top is golden brown.

Cut into squares and serve warm with caramel sauce.

8 servings.

[Bon appétit, December 2000]