Instructions: Cake: Cream brown sugar and shortening until smooth. Add eggs, blending well. Sift dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with beer, beating well after each addition.

Stir in nuts and dates. Spoon batter into a well-greased and floured 10 inch tube pan. Bake at 350 for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Cool. Frost with caramel frosting, if desired.

Frosting: Combine butter and brown sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves. Add milk and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Add salt, vanilla and powdered sugar. Beat to spreading consistency. Makes about 3 cups.

Yield: 10 to 12 servings.

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