Fruit Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Mix flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt.
2. 2
   Beat sugar and butter in a large bowl with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time.
3. 3
   Add dates and dissolved baking soda. On low speed, gradually beat in flour mixture.
4. 4
   By hand, stir in nuts.
5. 5
   Chill several hours until firm.
6. 6
   Heat oven to 350°.
7. 7
   Grease baking sheets.
8. 8
   Form dough into 6 rolls, about 10 inches long on a lightly floured surface.
9. 9
   Place 2 rolls 5 inches apart on each prepared baking sheet.
10. 10
    Flatten to 1/2-inch thickness.
11. 11
    Sprinkle with sugar.
12. 12
    Bake 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown (longer baking time will produce crisper cookies).
13. 13
    While hot, cut diagonally into 1-inch slices.
14. 14
    Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes. Remove and cool on wire racks.
15. 15
    Makes 60.