Divine Date Delights: Heavenly Bars with a Twist 🍽️

Not Your Usual Date Bars 🍪

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 24
Yield: 1 10×15 jelly roll pan

Description:

This delightful recipe for Not Your Usual Date Bars is a gem I stumbled upon back in February 2005, and it has since become a beloved staple in my repertoire. Renowned for its irresistibly moist and cake-like texture, these bars are infused with the rich flavors of dates and nuts, making them an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Unlike traditional date bars, this recipe boasts a unique twist, elevating it to a whole new level of culinary excellence.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dates
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons butter (for icing)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for icing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Date Mixture:

   • In a saucepan, combine the dates, milk, and cream cheese over medium-low heat.
   • Cook until the dates are soft and the mixture is thoroughly blended, creating a luscious and aromatic filling.

2. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (or yogurt), ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

   • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
   • Gently fold in the cooled date mixture and chopped nuts (if using), ensuring a uniform distribution throughout the batter.

5. Bake the Bars:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, ensuring the batter doesn’t stick during baking.
   • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even baking.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Prepare the Icing:

   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat until it turns a golden brown color, being careful not to burn it.
   • Remove from heat and transfer the browned butter to a mixing bowl.
   • Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl, beating until smooth and creamy.
   • If the icing is too thick, gradually add a small amount of milk until desired consistency is achieved.

7. Finish and Serve:

   • While the bars are still warm, spread the prepared icing evenly over the top, allowing it to melt slightly and seep into the bars for added flavor.
   • Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into neat squares or bars, ensuring each bite is filled with delectable goodness.
   • Serve and enjoy these Not Your Usual Date Bars as a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

With their irresistible combination of sweet dates, creamy texture, and nutty crunch, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household, captivating taste buds with every decadent bite. Whether served as a delectable dessert or enjoyed as a midday treat, these Not Your Usual Date Bars are guaranteed to delight and impress even the most discerning palates. So why wait? Indulge your senses and treat yourself to a slice of heaven with this sensational recipe!