Fig Drop Cookies

1 cup dried figs, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

In saucepan, combine figs and water. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until mixture is a thick paste. Cool.

Cream shortening, butter, sugars, egg and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Into another bowl, sift flour, baking powder and salt.

Add sifted dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, blending well. Stir in fig paste until well blended. Drop by spoonsful onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 11 to 14 minutes.

Cool completely before storing in a tightly covered container.

Makes about 30 to 36 cookies.