Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a standard loaf pan.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over them and let sit for 15 minutes to soften.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the date mixture (including the liquid). Stir until just combined.
Step 7: Gently fold in the toasted walnuts.
Step 8: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: While the cake is baking, whisk together the orange juice, melted butter, powdered sugar, and orange zest to create the glaze.
Step 10: Once the cake is removed from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes, then pour the orange butter glaze over the top while still warm.