Queen Elizabeth Cake

Cake:.

With the rack in the middle position, preheat the oven to 350°F Line the bottom of a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Butter and flour the sides.

In a saucepan, bring the water, dates and baking soda to a boil. Simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients, alternating with the date mixture. Pour into the pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven. If desired, place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any icing that might spill over. Set the oven to broil.

Icing:.

In a saucepan, bring all ingredients to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 2 minutes.

Spread the icing on the hot cake and broil until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.