Through the woods. To Grandmother’s house we go. There is nothing more comforting then homemade cookies, warm and fresh, out of your Granny’s oven. Memories of baking beside my own Nan, and the smells coming from her cozy kitchen always keep her alive in my mind. I for sure wouldn’t be the cook I am today without those hours of invaluable lessons. Today in the marymeals’ kitchen we are honored to share with you a special cookie brought to you by the grandmother of my amazing friends, Shane and Joanne. This delicious date filled cookie is courtesy of Evelynne Trick circa 1970. I’ve been hearing about it since we met, and couldn’t wait to try them for myself. Even though dates don’t come from Ohio, Mrs. Trick, you made one mean date filled cookie! Let me tell you these delicious treats do not disappoint, and will be a perfect addition to your holiday table. I’m even leaving some out for Santa.
Evelynne Trick’s Date Filled Cookies
DOUGH
- 2 Cups Light Brown Sugar
- 1 Cup of shortening or margarine
- ½ tsp Salt
- 3 eggs well beaten
- 4 Cups sifted All Purpose Flour
- 2 tsp Vanilla
FILLING
- 1 Cup Light Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Flour
- 1 Cup Water
- ½ Cup chopped walnuts
- 1 Cup pitted dates
- 1 tsp Vanilla
DIRECTIONS
Mix dough and refrigerate over night. Boil filling until thick and refrigerate over night.
To Assemble
Roll dough thin and cut in small circles about 1.75” diameter (or form in to a ball and press). Place each circle on a greased cookie sheet. Place a scant teaspoon of filling on each circle (keeping it in the center). Cover with another circle of dough and seal the edges together by pressing with a fork.
Bake at 375° – 400° for 10-12 minutes (or until brown).
Keep in an air tight container with a piece of apple to make soft (a slice of sandwich bread will also work).
Mary’s note:
Make sure that the dough stays extremely cold during the entire process. I put the cookies back in the fridge for about an hour before I start pressing with the fork. This will keep the fork from sticking to the dough. I also decorated the cookies with red and green sprinkles to add a more festive look. Although Shane remembers Grandma Evelynne garnishing them with red and green candied cherries.
