Place dates and water into a saucepan and bring to the boil over medium heat; cook 5 minutes. Cool and stir through bi-carb soda. Stand for 10 minutes

Place eggs, milk, butter and vanilla in a large jug and whisk until well combined

Combine flour and sugar into a large mixing bowl and make a well in the centre

Carefully whisk in egg milk mixture followed by the softened date mixture to form a smooth batter

Select CLASSIC waffle setting and dial up number 6 on the browning control dial

Preheat until orange light flashes up and the word HEATING disappears

Using waffle dosing cup, pour 1/2 cup of batter into each waffle square. Close lid and cook until timer has finished and ready beep has sounded 3 times. Set aside

To make the butterscotch sauce, place butter, brown sugar and cream into a saucepan and stir until melted. Bring to the simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thick and syrupy

Serve waffle drizzled with butterscotch sauce and a scoop of ice cream