3/4 c. shortening/butter
1/4 c. butter
1 1/2 c. light brown sugar
2 eggs, well beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. buttermilk
3 1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 c. fresh orange juice and grated orange peel
1 c. chopped dates
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Cream the shortenings and sugar well. Add the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly. Then add orange juice, rind, and flavoring and buttermilk. Sift dry ingredients and gradually add to mixture. Add dates and nuts. Drop by teaspoon on lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes at 350 degrees.

When cool, frost with confectioners' sugar, butter, orange juice, and drop of orange extract.