Dan’s Date Cookies by Kathryn McKrola

Submitted by Beth Spell

Beth says, “This is my mother’s (Kathryn McKrola) recipe for my brother’s favorite Christmas cookie. I think this is a double recipe - she has another that is a triple recipe, as he really liked these cookies, and she wanted to have plenty.”
4 C. brown sugar
4 eggs, beaten
2 C. shortening or margarine
7 C. flour
2 teas. vanilla
2 C. dates, chopped
2 C. nuts, chopped
4 tables. cream
2 teas. cream of tartar
2 teas. baking powder
5 drops maple flavoring (not pancake syrup but the extract)
1.  Cream sugar eggs, and shortening (she always used Parkay margarine for baking, I use butter)
2.  Mix in flavorings and cream (half and half works)
3.  Add dry ingredients, mix well and add nuts (we use pecans)
4.  Form into rolls about 2-2 1/2 inches in diameter about 8-10 inches long, wrap in wax paper and chill over night
5.  Slice into slightly over 1/4 inch slices and bake at 400 F for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.