Date and Nut Bars

Step 1
In a small bowl, pour boiling water over dates, and set aside to cool. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease a 10×10 inch baking pan.

Step 2
In a medium bowl, cream together the shortening and white sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Add the dates, including any water; mix well. Sift together the flour, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and baking soda; stir into the date mixture. Then stir in the nuts.

Step 3
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 10×10 inch pan, and bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven. When cool, cut into bars, and roll each bar in confectioners' sugar.