Place chopped dates in a large bowl and sprinkle with baking soda.
Pour boiling water over the dates and let sit until cool.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream butter and both sugars and then add the beaten eggs.
Mix until creamy.
Sift the flours with the teaspoon of cinnamon and then slowly add to the butter mixture until all is incorporated.
Add vanilla, dates (with water) and chopped nuts and stir until blended.
Pour into two 9 inch greased and floured cake pans and bake at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool on wire racks.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
This can also be served topped with fresh whipped cream.