Klaychah (Date Cookies)

1. 1

   In saucepan, combine dates, butter, water, cardamom and cloves.

2. 2

   Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes or until dates become a paste.

3. 3

   Let stand at room temperature 1 hour.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, in mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Make a well; add shortening and milk. Knead into dough, adding more flour or milk if necessary.

5. 5

   Divide dough into 4 parts then roll, one at a time, to about 1/4-inch thickness.

6. 6

   Divide date paste into 4 parts and roll each out, between sheets of wax paper, to match dough size.

7. 7

   Remove wax paper; place date layer on dough. (If date paste is too soft, gently spread each portion on dough with knife.)

8. 8

   Roll into cylinder, jellyroll style.

9. 9

   Slice rolls into 1-inch pieces and place on greased baking sheet.

10. 10

    Bake in preheated 325F oven 35 minutes or until cookies begin to turn golden brown.

11. 11

    Let cool.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.