Pharaoh's Delightful Date Cookies (بسكويت التمر سعادة الفراعنة)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the dates soften. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough in half. Roll each half into a log shape, then flatten it into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
5. Spoon the cooled date mixture onto one half of each rectangle. Fold the other half of the dough over the dates and press the edges to seal.
6. Cut the filled dough into individual cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.