Date Bars from My Childhood 🍪
Introduction:
I call these delectable treats “Date Bars from My Childhood” because they evoke nostalgic memories of special occasions with my grandmother and mother, who would whip them up effortlessly. These bars are imbued with the rich flavor of dates, making them irresistibly “datey” and a beloved favorite in my family.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 25-30 squares
- Category: Bar Cookie
- Keywords: Dessert, Lunch/Snacks, Cookie & Brownie, Grains, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Christmas, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oatmeal | 1 3/4 cups |
| Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dates | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Walnuts | 1 cup |
Instructions:
-
Make the Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine the dates, sugar, and water.
- Boil the mixture until thick, approximately 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, vanilla extract, and chopped walnuts.
- Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
-
-
Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine oatmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, and salt.
- Melt the butter and add it to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
-
Assembly:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Press half of the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spread the cooled date filling over the crust layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Cover the date filling with the remaining half of the crust mixture, gently pressing it down.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, being careful not to overbake.
-
Final Touches:
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares of your desired size.
- Enjoy the nostalgic goodness of these delightful Date Bars from My Childhood!
These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick snack, a lunchbox treat, or a delightful dessert for gatherings and celebrations. With their wholesome ingredients and irresistible flavor, they are sure to become a cherished favorite in your household too. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the comforting taste of homemade goodness!
