Chilenitos (Dairy & Nut-Free)

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Vegetable Shortening
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting)
• 1 cup Dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice

Instructions

1. 1To make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, vegetable shortening, baking powder, and salt. Rub the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3To make the Date Manjar: Combine pitted dates and water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook until the dates are soft and the mixture has thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
4. 4Blend the date mixture with lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
5. 5Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. 6On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. 7Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
8. 8Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
10. 10Let the cookies cool completely.
11. 11Spread a layer of date manjar on half of the cookies.
12. 12Top with the remaining cookies to form sandwiches.
13. 13Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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