Date Pinwheels

-first made 2017 by Sandy            REFRIGERATE

Bake: 350°F for 10 - 12 min

Ingredients:

·       8 oz. baking dates

·       1/3 cup sugar

·       1/3 cup water

·       1/2 cup finely chopped nuts

·       1/2 tsp vanilla

·       2 cups all-purpose flour

·       1/2 tsp baking soda

·       ¼ tsp salt

·       ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

·       1/2 cup shortening

·       1 cup packed brown sugar (used dark, should be light)

·       1 egg

·       1/2 tsp vanilla

Method:

1.  For filling: in a small saucepan combine dates, sugar and water and bring to boiling. Cook and stir over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes or til thick. Remove from the heat. Stir in nuts and ½ tsp vanilla. Cool thoroughly.

2.  Combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon

3.  In a large mixer bowl, beat shortening for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and beat till fluffy. Add egg and ½ tsp vanilla and beat well.

4.  Add flour mixture and beat till well mixed, stirring in last portion by hand.

5.  Cover and chill about 30 minutes or til easy to handle.

6.  On waxed paper roll dough into an 18 x 10-inch rectangle. Spread filling to within ½ inch of edges. Roll up jelly -roll style, beginning at long side. Pinch edge to seal. Cut roll in half crosswise. Wrap rolls and chill for several hours or overnight

7.  Cut into 1/4-inch slices. Place on a parchment covered baking sheet. Bake in a 350F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or till done. Cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute, then remove and cool thoroughly. Makes about 72