Spiced Date Drops

2 1/2 c All-purpose flour

3/4 ts Baking soda

1/2 ts Salt

1 ts Ground cinnamon

1/2 ts Ground cloves

1 c Margarine; softened

1 c Sugar

3 Large eggs

1 ts Vanilla extract

8 oz Dates; pitted, chopped

1 c Black walnuts; chopped

Recipe by: Jo Anne Merrill

1. Coarsely chop date and walnuts.

2. Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and cloves;

set aside. 3. Place softened margarine or butter into large mixer bowl. Add

sugar, eggs and vanilla. Beat until smooth and fluffy using medium speed. Stir in flour mixture with a wooden spoon until well combined. Stir in dates and walnuts. Dough will be very stiff. 4. Cover tightly and refrigerate for 1 hour or more.

5. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto lightly greased

cookie sheets. Bake in preheated 400-degree oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Do not overcook. 6. Remove to wire rack and cool completely before storing.

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