Cheddar Date Nut Loaf

8 oz Dates; finely chopped

2 t Butter

3/4 c Water; boiling

1 3/4 c Unbleached flour; sifted

1/4 t Salt

1 t Baking soda

1/2 c Sugar; granulated

1 ea Egg; lg, well beaten

4 oz Cheddar md, shredded

1 c Walnuts; chopped

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Place the dates and butter in a small bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let stand for 5 minutes. Stir the dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Add the date mixture, egg, cheddar and nuts. Mix until just blended and spoon the mixture into a well greased 9 X 5-inch loaf pan. Let stand for 20 minutes. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes in the preheated oven or until a wooden pick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean. Turn out onto a rack and cool before slicing. NOTE: The flavor improves is the bread stands overnight before serving.