Date-Nut Cheese Bread

3/4 c. boiling water
1/2 lb. pitted dates, finely cut
2 T. butter
1-3/4 c. all-purpose flour, sifted before measuring
1/4 t. salt
1 t. baking soda
1/2 c. sugar
1 egg, well beaten
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 c. walnuts, chopped

Butter a 9 x 5 x 3" loaf pan. Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Pour boiling water over dates and butter. Let stand about 5 minutes until all butter is melted and mixture has cooled.

In a separate bowl, sift flour again with salt, soda, and sugar. Stir in the date mixture, beaten egg, cheese, and walnuts. Stir only until well-blended. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake for 50-60 minutes. Turn onto a rack to cool. Wrap in foil or clear plastic to store.

Makes 1 loaf.

Adapted from Food Fare, Orlando Sorosis Woman's Club, p. 25.