Date Moons

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. 2

   Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth.

3. 3

   Add flour and salt, and beat until blended.

4. 4

   Shape dough into a ball and wrap well in waxed paper or cling wrap.

5. 5

   Chill for an hour.

6. 6

   Combine dates, sugar, and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes or until thickened.

7. 7

   Remove fruit puree from heat; stir in walnuts and orange rind, and let cool.

8. 8

   Divide chilled dough in half.

9. 9

   Place half (or less) on a lightly floured surface, and roll to 1/8-inch thickness.

10. 10

    Cut dough with a 2 1/2-inch round cutter, and place on a lightly greased baking sheet.

11. 11

    Spoon 1/2 teaspoon date mixture in center of each cookie.

12. 12

    Repeat procedure with remaining dough.

13. 13

    Fold dough over filling, pressing edges with tines of a fork to seal.

14. 14

    Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

15. 15

    Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

16. 16

    Remove to a cooling rack until fully cool.

17. 17

    Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

No additional tips available.