1/2 c. butter, softened
1 c. (4 oz.) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 c. all-purpose flour
1/8 tsp. red pepper
Pinch of salt
2 tbsp. cold water
3 dozen pitted dates
3 dozen pecan halves

Beat butter and cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Combine flour, red pepper and salt. Add flour mixture and water to cheese mixture, stirring until all the dry ingredients are moistened. Shape into a ball; roll dough to 1/8" thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 2" squares.

Cut a lengthwise slit in each date; fill each with a pecan half. Place a filled date in center of each pastry square. Fold 2 opposite edges of pastry to center of date, overlapping edges slightly; press gently to seal.

Place seam side down on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until pastries are lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.