1/2 c. soft shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 tbsp. thick cream
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. sifted flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt

Mix shortening, sugar and eggs thoroughly. Stir in cream and vanilla. Sift together and stir in flour, soda and salt. Chill dough. Roll out dough and cut with simple cookie cutter of desired shape, cutting 2 alike for each cookie. Cut a circle or slit in top cookie. Place bottom pieces on nonstick or lightly greased cookie sheet. Spread about a teaspoon of filling (more or less) on each, almost to the edges. Cover with top pieces. Press edges together with fingers or floured fork. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in 400 degree oven until lightly browned. About 6 dozen (3 inch) cookies.

DATE FILLING: Cook together slowly, stirring constantly until thickened: 2 cups pitted dates finely cut up, 3/4 cup sugar, 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional). Cool. Fills about 5 dozen cookies.