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Old Fashioned Date Squares: 5 Reasons to Love This Recipe

Old Fashioned Date Squares

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Old-Fashioned Date Squares feature a buttery oat crumble layered with a rich, jammy date filling. Soft in the middle and crisp on top, these nostalgic bars taste just like Grandma used to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) rolled oats
  • ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups (300 g) pitted dates, chopped
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or orange zest

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine dates and water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in baking soda and cook until thick and jam-like. Add vanilla and optional citrus. Let cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
  3. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom. Spread the date filling evenly, then top with the remaining oat crumble, pressing lightly.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Let cool completely before cutting into squares. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • These squares are great for breakfast or as a snack with tea.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.

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