Description
A sweet and hearty treat featuring a gooey date filling and a buttery oat crumble. These classic date squares are easy to make and perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert!
Ingredients
For the Date Filling:
- Dates: 2 cups, chopped (Medjool or Deglet Noor)
- Water: 1 cup
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Oat Crumble:
- Rolled Oats: 1 1/2 cups
- Flour: 1 cup (all-purpose or whole wheat)
- Brown Sugar: 3/4 cup
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 3/4 cup, melted
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Optional Additions:
- Chopped Nuts: 1/2 cup (walnuts or pecans) for extra crunch
- Coconut Sugar: Swap for brown sugar for a different sweetness
Instructions
-
Prepare the Date Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped dates, water, and baking soda. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates soften and form a thick paste. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly. -
Make the Oat Crumble
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is evenly coated and crumbly. -
Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the dish to form the crust. Spread the date filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top, pressing lightly. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Let the squares cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oats and substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour.
- For extra texture, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the oat mixture.
- Let them cool fully before slicing to help them hold their shape.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg