Fig Newtons

Serves:

Ingredients:

1 (12 OZ) Package dried figs,
1/4 ts Soda
2 1/2 c Flour
1 ts Vanilla
2 Eggs
1 c Brown sugar, packed
1/2 c Shortening
Juice of 1 lemon
3/4 c Water
1/2 c Sugar
chopped
1/2 ts Salt

Method:

In a saucepan combine figs, sugar, water and lemon juice.
Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture is thick and jamlike.
Cool.
In a bowl, combine shortening, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Stir in flour, soda and salt.
Turn dough out onto a heavily floured surface and knead a few times to make a smooth ball.
With a floured rolling pin roll dough out to a 14 x 12-inch rectangle.
Cut dough with a knife into 4 strips, 3 1/2 inches wide and 12 inches long.
Spoon filling in a mound down the center of each strip.
Using a spatula, turn in sides of each strip to enclose the filling.
Press edges together and turn strip seam side down.
With a sharp knife cut each strip into 10 pieces.
Place on greased baking sheets and bake at 375 degrees for 10 - 12 minutes, or until fig newtons are puffed and firm to the touch.
Cool on a rack and store in an airtight container in a cool dry place.
Makes 40.