Date Nut Roll

1 cup milk
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 1/2 cups chopped, pitted dates
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook milk, sugar and butter over medium heat until it forms a soft ball when dropped into a cup of cold water, about 234 degrees F. Add dates, nuts and vanilla extract. Beat with a wooden spoon until creamy. Put a clean cup towel on the counter or butter a sheet of wax paper.

When the candy is cool enough to handle, roll the mixture into the towel or wax paper in a log shape. Refrigerate overnight and slice when chilled. Makes 20 servings.