Easy Date Squares: A Quick and Delicious Treat
Prepare to delight in a truly simple yet delectable dessert with this Easy Date Squares recipe, a cherished favorite passed down from my mother-in-law. These squares are not only a breeze to make but are also perfect for any occasion where a comforting and satisfying treat is desired. With a luscious date jam layer nestled between a crumbly, oat-studded base and topping, these squares are sure to be a hit. Additionally, you’ll find that the date jam is so delicious on its own, it makes a fantastic spread for bagels or toast. Here’s how you can bring these irresistible bars to life in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Date Jam:
- 1 1/2 cups dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Oatmeal Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oven is at the perfect temperature when it’s time to bake your date squares, resulting in a beautifully even bake.
2. Prepare the Date Jam:
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of chopped dates, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The mixture should thicken and take on the consistency of a thick paste. Remove from heat and allow the date jam to cool completely.
3. Mix the Oatmeal Layer:
While the date jam is cooling, turn your attention to the oatmeal layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and if using, 1/2 cup each of chopped walnuts and pecans. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed.
Cut 3/4 cup of unsalted butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 2 cups of this mixture for the topping later.
4. Assemble the Date Squares:
Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the remaining oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Spread the cooled date jam evenly over the base layer, making sure to cover it completely.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the top of the date jam layer, gently pressing it down to adhere.
5. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 33 minutes. The date squares are done when the top is golden brown and the edges are starting to pull away from the sides of the pan.
6. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial as it allows the bars to set and makes them easier to cut into neat squares. Once cool, cut into 12 squares or as desired.
7. Enjoy:
These Easy Date Squares are now ready to be enjoyed! Perfect as a delightful snack or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea or coffee. Remember, the homemade date jam can be a delightful addition to your breakfast or snack routine, spread over bagels or toast for a delicious twist.
This recipe yields approximately 3 dozen delightful date squares, each brimming with a sweet and satisfying flavor. With a total time of just 40 minutes, including preparation and baking, these treats are a wonderful option when you need a quick and scrumptious dessert. Enjoy making and sharing these Easy Date Squares, and watch them quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire! 🍪✨
