From the kitchens of Amy & JJ

It’s the season of baked goods! As Easter approaches, there are so many great reasons to do some baking. A gift for friends, something to bring to celebrations, a warm welcome when someone gets home – or no excuse at all…we just want some cookies!

These date filled cookies are not only delicious, but look great on a plate. Serve warm and be ready to share this recipe!

Date Filled Cookies
Dough
2 Cups Brown Sugar
1 Cup Shortening
3 eggs
4 Cups Flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda

Filling
2 1/2 Cups dates chopped
1 Cup white sugar
1 Cup water
1 Lemon – Juice and 1Tbls Zest
1 Cup of raisins
4 Tbls Butter

Beat brown sugar and shortening together, add eggs one at a time and beat. Sift flour, salt and baking soda together and gradually add to sugar and egg mixture. Don’t over beat! Put dough into refrigerator for one hour to chill.

Roll out dough on a floured surface into a rectangle to about 1/4” thick. Wax paper is a great tool here to keep the dough from sticking.

Spread the filling on the dough being careful not to tear the dough. Stay away from spreading out to the edges. Roll starting at the long edge like a cinnamon bun. Place on a cookie sheet and place in the refrigerator overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Slice cookies about 1/4” thick and place on a baking sheet. Use parchment paper, if available, cookies tend to stick to the baking sheet and may burn. Bake until light brown 8-10 minute. Remove to a cooking rack.