Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time. Beat until smooth. Add vanilla. Combine applesauce and soda. Stir in. Mix flour, cinnamon and salt. Add to creamed mixture. Beat until smooth. Beat until smooth. Mix in chocolate chips, dates and walnuts.
Turn into a greased and floured 2 quart pudding mold. Place in crockery part of crock part. Cover with 4 layers of paper towels. Place lid loosely on top of crockpot so that steam can escape. Cook on High for 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.