Chewy Date-Pecan Squares

2 eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup walnuts, broken
2 cups dates, finely cut

Beat eggs until foamy, then add sugar slowly to eggs and beat until thick. Add vanilla extract. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt, then add slowly to egg mixture. Finally, add nuts and dates. Spread out into a well-greased 8-inch square pan. Bake at 325 degrees F until the mixture looks dull on top, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Sift confectioners sugar over, if desired. Cut into squares while warm.