For best results use the KitchenAid Platinum Stand Mixer KSM156

Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C for fan forced oven). Grease and line a 13 x 24cm loaf tin with baking paper and spray lightly with oil

Combine water and dates in a medium-sized saucepan and bring to the boil. Remove from heat and stir through soda. Allow to cool

Place butter and sugar into the mixing bowl of the stand mixer. Attach the flat beater and pouring shield (if available). Mix on speed 2 until incorporated, then increase to speed 6 and mix for 2-3 minutes, or until light and creamy. Scrape down sides of bowl regularly with a spatula

Add date mixture, mixed spice, chocolate, nuts and flour and mix on speed 1 until just combined. Do not over mix. Pour into prepared tin and bake for 40 minutes on middle shelf

Combine extra chocolate and brown sugar together and sprinkle over top of cake. Bake for a further 5 minutes or until cake is firm to touch. Remove from heat and allow to cool

Slice cake and serve with Butterscotch sauce and ice cream

Combine cream, butter and sugar in a small saucepan and simmer for 3 minutes or until sugar has dissolved