Tipsy Tart

Name: Tipsy Tart
Ingredients: For the Tart; 1/2 pound pitted dates (pref. Medjool); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup boiling water; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 egg; 1 1/4 cups flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 /2 teaspoons salt; For the syrup; 1 cup sugar; 3/4 cup water; 1/3 cup brandy or dark rum; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 pinch salt