1 c. chopped dates
2/3 c. sugar
1 c. boiling water
1 1/2 tsp. flour
1 tsp. vanilla

Boil all ingredients in saucepan. Let cool while making dough.

DOUGH:

1 c. shortening
2 eggs, well beaten
4 tsp. baking powder
2 c. sugar
4 - 4 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. milk

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and milk. Sift flour; measure and sift with baking powder and salt. Add to creamed shortening and sugar. Mix thoroughly. Chill 1/2 hour. Turn onto lightly floured board. Roll on sheet 1/8 inch thick. Cut with floured cutter. 2 cutters for each cookie. Pat filling on each cutter and top with second one, pressing around the edges. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes.