Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf tin.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates and baking soda. Pour the boiling water over them and let sit for 15 minutes until softened.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the soaked date mixture (including the liquid).
Step 5: Fold in the toasted walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining granulated sugar, water, and orange juice in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water.
Step 8: Once the cake is removed from the oven, poke small holes all over the surface with a toothpick. Pour the warm syrup over the hot cake and allow it to soak in completely before serving.