Boil water in a saucepan and add the chopped dates to it and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Add baking soda, mix well and switch off the heat.
Set aside for 15 minutes and puree to a fine paste.
Mix the butter, and sugar until they are fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla to the mixer and continue to beat one after the other.
Add the flour, salt, pureed dates, spices and baking powder and mix.
Pour into a greased baking pan and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Bake for 35-40 minutes 180°C.