2 c. brown sugar (I like dark)
1 c. lard or other shortening
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
4 tsp. hot water
1 tsp. cream of tartar
1 tsp. vanilla
4 to 5 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt

Mix sugar and shortening. Beat in eggs. Add vanilla. Add soda dissolved in water. Sift in dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture to make stiff dough. Roll tin and cut round like glass top. Fill round with date filling and fold over. Bake in 350 degrees until brown.

DATE FILLING:

1 lb. dates, chopped
1/2 c. water

Cook until mushy.