In mixing bowl, stir together buttermilk, dates, butter and egg to blend well. Combine remaining ingredients; stir into buttermilk mixture, mixing lightly with a fork. (Do not try to smooth out all of the lumps.)

Heat skillet; spoon batter onto skillet allowing about 3 Tbs. of batter for each. Bake until golden on both sides, turning once. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh fruit or syrup