3 c. sugar
1 c. evaporated milk
8 oz. pitted dates
1/2 stick butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 to 1 1/2 c. pecan or walnut halves

Cook sugar and milk until it forms ball in water, approximately 15 minutes. Add dates; bring to a boil and remove from heat. Add butter and beat until well blended and it starts to thicken. Then add vanilla and nuts. Pour into a damp cloth and shape into a roll. Let set several hours until firm. Slice into thin slices.