Instructions: 1. SPRINKLE oats in a shallow baking pan. Bake in a 375 oven about 10 minutes or till lightly toasted, stirring once. Place in bowl. Stir in sour milk or buttermilk and let stand a few minutes

2. BEAT together brown sugar and shortening till combined. Add baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; beat till combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla till combined. Stir in oat mixture. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in dates, nuts, and any remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Drop by teaspoons onto a greased cookie sheet.

3. BAKE in a 375 degree oven about 10 minutes or till edges are golden brown. Cool on wire racks. If desired, drizzle with Powdered Sugar Icing.

POWDERED SUGAR ICING: Combine 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, and enough milk to make of drizzling consistency.

NOTES : To make 1/3 cup sour milk, mix 1 teaspoon lemon juice or cider vinegar plus enough milk to make 1/3 cup. Let stand about 5 minutes before using. Or; use the buttermilk option.

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