3 cups sugar
1 cup milk
6 candied or Maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
1 pkg. pitted dates, chopped
1 tbsp. butter
1 cup pecans

Mix sugar and milk; bring to the boiling point, and add cherries and dates. Boil slowly until a small amount of the mixture forms a soft ball when tried in cold water (234-240°F on candy thermometer).

Remove from heat. Add butter; set in a pan of cold water.

When cool, beat until thick. Add nuts. Pour onto dampened cloth and shape into desired roll.

Chill and slice when cold.

Cooks Note: Use of a candy thermometer is recommended.