Date Nut Muffins

• cups chopped dates1 1⁄2
• cups hot water3
• cup butter (1 1/2 sticks) or 3/4 cup margarine (1 1/2 sticks)↗3⁄4
• cups sugar↗1 1⁄2
• cups water↗1 1⁄2
• cup pecan pieces↗1
• extra large eggs2
• teaspoons baking soda↗1 1⁄2
• teaspoons vanilla↗1 1⁄2
• teaspoon salt↗1⁄4
• cups all-purpose flour↗2 3⁄4

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, combine dates and hot water. Let stand 10 minutes. Drain and discard water.Cover and refrigerate until cold.

2. 2

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

3. 3

   Line 12 medium muffin cups with paper liners or lightly grease.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until creamy.

5. 5

   Add water,pecans,eggs,baking soda, vanilla, and salt and mix until well blended.

6. 6

   Add flour and mix until just moistened.

7. 7

   Fold in cold dates and spoon into prepared muffin pans.

8. 8

   Bake 20-25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. 9

   Let stand a few minutes before removing from pan.