Description
These classic date squares feature a rich, naturally sweet date filling layered between a buttery oat crumble crust and topping. With a soft center and crisp golden top, they are a comforting, nostalgic dessert perfect for coffee breaks, lunchboxes, and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups (425 g) Medjool dates, pitted and chopped (lightly packed)
- 1 cup (250 ml) water
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 3/4 cups (175 g) quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup (150 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (160 g) brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup (170 g) semi-salted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
- In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates, water, lemon juice, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and softened.
- Stir in baking soda (mixture will foam). Stir until smooth and thick. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
- Add softened butter and blend with hands or a pastry cutter until crumbly and holds when pressed.
- Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spread the date filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle remaining oat mixture on top and gently press down slightly.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool completely before lifting from pan and cutting into squares.
Notes
- Weigh dates after pitting for accurate measurement.
- Add cinnamon, cardamom, or orange zest for flavor variation.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze tightly wrapped squares for up to 3 months.
- Warm briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (based on 16 squares)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
