This is a family traditional holiday cookie. I usually have to hide the dough while it is chilling. Time and time again I’ve gone to bake the cookies and the dough is half gone from two-legged Christmas mice, with the last name of Sibbett, stealing it before it is baked!

Cream together:
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup shortening

Add:
1 well-beaten egg

Sift together:
3 ½ cups freshly-ground whole wehat flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cream of tarter

Add dry ingredients to creamed sugar and shortening, then add:

1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup chopped dates
1 tsp vanilla
few drops either maple or almost flavoring

Mix thoroughly. This makes a thick batter, and I usually mix it with my hands towards the end. Form into 6-7 inch rolls. Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper and chill overnight.

Slice thin and place on well-oiled baking sheet. Bake in hot (410˚) oven for 10 minutes or until delicate brown. Do not over bake. Makes 100 servings.

Because I use whole wheat flour, I add a little more milk. Dough should not stick to hands, and should be easily handled. Add a little flour or milk until makes good rolls.

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