Date Rolls

1 cup shortening

1 cup white sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

3 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon water

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 pound dates, pitted and chopped

½ cup white sugar

1 cup water

Cream together shortening, 1 cup white sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar. Add eggs, vanilla and 1 tablespoon of water.

Sift flour, soda, and saltTWICE and add to sugar mixture. Divide dough into 2 or 3 parts.

Cook dates, 1/2 cup white sugar and 1 cup water over low heat, stirring constantly until it becomes a smooth paste. Let cool.

Roll each section of dough into rectangles 1/4 - 1/2 inch thick.

Spread filling over rectangles and roll up like a jelly roll. Cover and chill dough until firm; 2 - 3 hours.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Slice dough 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.