1/2 c Shortening

1 c Dark brown sugar; firmly pac

-ked 1 Egg

2 c All-purpose flour

1/2 ts Baking soda

1/4 ts Salt

1 ts Ground cinnamon

Filling: 8 oz Whole pitted dates; chopped

1/2 c Sugar

1/4 c Water

1 c Pecans; finely chopped

Recipe by: Southern Living

Cream shortening; gradually add sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer. Add egg, and beat well. Combine flour, soda, salt, and cinnamon; gradually add to creamed mixture, mixing well. Shape dough into a ball. (Dough will be stiff.) Place dough on a lightly floured surface; roll into a 16- x 8-inch rectangle. Spread filling over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch margin on all sides. Starting at long side, carefully roll dough, jellyroll fashion; pinch seam and ends of roll to seal. Wrap dough in wax paper, and chill at least 1 hour. Unwrap roll, and cut into 1/4-inch slices. Place 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes. FILLING Combine dates, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove filling from heat; -----