Date Muffins

1 lb. pitted, chopped dates
2 cups boiling water
2 ¼ cups sugar
1 1/8 tsp. baking soda
1 1/8 tsp. salt
1 1/8 tsp. baking powder
3 eggs
3 cups flour
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup chopped nuts (opt)

Pour water over dates in blender. Blend until smooth. Pour into mixing bowl and add other ingredients in order. Stir until smooth. Bake in muffin tins sprayed with Pam at 350° for 15-20 minutes.