1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/3 cup light corn syrup (Karo)
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (1 lb.) box confectioners' sugar, sifted
food coloring (your choice)
dried apricots, prunes and dates

Cream butter slightly; blend in corn syrup, vanilla and salt. Add confectioners' sugar all at once and mix in with spoon; knead with hands.

Turn out onto boards; continue kneading until mixture is well blended and smooth. Knead in food coloring.

Store in a cool place; prepare fruits. Shape fondant into small rolls; stuff into pitted fruits.

Makes 1 1/3 pounds fondant.