Old Fashioned Date Squares: 15 Min Divine Recipe

Name: Old Fashioned Date Squares: 15 Min Divine Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: North American
Ingredients: For the Oat Crust and Topping:; 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; For the Date Filling:; 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

by basmer

3 de November de 2025

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Old Fashioned Date Squares have been a staple in my baking repertoire for as long as I can remember, evoking the warmth and comfort of my childhood kitchen. The aroma of toasted oats and sweet dates simmering on the stove always meant a treat was in the making. These aren’t just any date bars; they are the kind that transport you back to simpler times, with that perfect balance of chewy, jammy filling and a buttery, slightly crisp oat crumble. If you’ve ever wondered how to make old fashioned date squares that taste truly authentic, you’re in the right place. These classic date squares are incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Date Squares Recipe

Incredible Taste: Experience the perfect harmony of rich, sweet dates and a buttery, toasted oat crumble that’s pure comfort food.
Quick Prep Time: You can whip up these delightful bars in about 20 minutes, making them an ideal treat for busy days.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with oats and dates, these bars offer a more wholesome option for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Budget-Friendly Baking: Using pantry staples, this homemade date squares recipe is incredibly cost-effective.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these sweet, chewy bars, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy these homemade date squares for breakfast, a snack, or a simple dessert with tea.
Nostalgic Charm: They bring back cherished memories with every bite, embodying the essence of classic comfort food.
Easy to Share: This recipe yields a good amount, perfect for sharing with neighbors or bringing to potlucks.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Date Squares

Gather these simple ingredients to create your own batch of classic old fashioned oat date bars. The magic truly lies in the combination of wholesome oats and rich dates, held together by a buttery crumble topping.

1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our crust and topping.
1 ½ cups (150 g) rolled oats – Old-fashioned rolled oats give these squares their signature texture and nutty flavor.
¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed – Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note and moisture to the crumble.
1 teaspoon baking soda – This helps the crumble topping bake up with a nice texture.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted – The key to a tender and flavorful crumble.
2 cups (300 g) pitted dates, chopped – The heart of our filling; choose soft, pliable dates for the best jammy texture.
1 cup (240 ml) water – Used to soften the dates and create the jammy consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the date filling.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with the dates to create a smoother, jam-like filling.
Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or orange zest – A little citrus brightens the rich date flavor beautifully.

How to Make Old Fashioned Date Squares

Making these classic bars is simpler than you might think, and the results are so rewarding! You’ll be amazed at how these humble ingredients transform into a comforting treat. These easy old fashioned date squares come together with just a few straightforward steps.

Making the Date Filling

First, let’s tackle that luscious date filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the 2 cups (300 g) chopped pitted dates with 1 cup (240 ml) water. Simmer this mixture over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates are wonderfully soft and starting to break down. Stir in the ½ teaspoon baking soda – watch it bubble and react! Continue to cook until the mixture thickens into a rich, jam-like consistency. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the optional citrus for a little brightness. Let this delicious filling cool slightly while you prepare the crumble.

Preparing the Crumble Mixture

Now for the irresistible crumble! In a large bowl, whisk together the 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups (150 g) rolled oats, ¾ cup (150 g) packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Pour in the 1 cup (225 g) melted unsalted butter. Stir everything together with a fork or your hands until it’s well combined and forms a lovely, crumbly texture. This mixture will be used for both the base and the topping of your bars.

Assembling and Baking the Squares

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This is where the magic happens for these easy old fashioned date squares. Press about half of the oat crumble mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create your base. Carefully spread the slightly cooled date filling over this base, ensuring it reaches all the edges. Finally, sprinkle and lightly press the remaining oat crumble mixture evenly over the date filling. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden brown and the edges look set. These easy old fashioned date squares are almost ready!

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Date Squares

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these bars absolutely perfect. Following these tips will elevate your baking and ensure you get the most delicious results every time you make these classic treats.

Use soft, fresh dates: They are crucial for a jammy, not dry, filling. If your dates seem a bit tough, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping and cooking.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the oven; overbaking can dry out both the filling and the crumble, making them too hard. You want a golden-brown top and a slightly soft center.
Cool completely: Patience is key! Letting the squares cool completely makes them much easier to slice cleanly.

What’s the secret to perfect old fashioned date squares?

The secret lies in the date filling’s consistency and the quality of your dates. For an authentic date squares recipe, ensure your dates are soft and cook them down until they are truly jam-like. Adding a touch of citrus, like lemon juice or zest, also brightens the flavor beautifully. For more baking tips, check out these last recipes.

Can I make old fashioned date squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the date filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge, or even freeze it for up to a month. This is a hallmark of grandma’s date squares recipe – always ready when you need a comforting treat!

How do I avoid common mistakes with old fashioned date squares?

The most common mistake is overbaking, which leads to dry bars. Another pitfall is using stale dates; always check their pliability. Taking these steps ensures you achieve the best old fashioned date squares, with a wonderfully chewy filling and a tender crumble.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Date Squares

These delightful bars are so versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments. They truly embody the spirit of a traditional date squares recipe, bringing comfort and nostalgia to any occasion.

With a Warm Drink: Enjoy these squares with a hot cup of coffee, a soothing mug of tea, or even a creamy chai latte. The sweetness of the dates and the warmth of the spices in the crumble are a perfect match for these comforting beverages.
As a Simple Dessert: For a slightly more decadent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of warm, gooey dates and cool, creamy topping is divine.
For Breakfast or Brunch: Don’t shy away from enjoying these as a special breakfast treat! Their wholesome ingredients make them a satisfying start to the day, especially alongside a glass of milk or fresh juice.

Nutrition Facts for Old Fashioned Date Squares

Per serving (this recipe yields 16 squares):

Calories: 230
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 125mg
Cholesterol: 25mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this old fashioned dessert recipe. For more healthy eating tips, consider learning about foods to eat less of.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Date Squares

Once your delicious batch of old fashioned date squares is baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. For the best results, always allow the bars to cool completely before storing. This prevents any condensation that could make them soggy. I usually let mine sit on a wire rack for at least an hour.

To store them at room temperature, keep them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delightful for about 3 to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is your best bet. Pop them into a sealed container, and they’ll be good for up to a week. For long-term storage, freezing is fantastic. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This date bar recipe old fashioned freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! For a warm, comforting treat, microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through. You can also gently warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes if you’re reheating a larger batch. If you’re looking for other quick meal ideas, check out these quick and delicious meat dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Date Squares

What are old fashioned date squares?

Old fashioned date squares are a beloved baked treat consisting of a buttery oat crumble base and topping, sandwiching a rich, jammy filling made from cooked dates. They’re known for their comforting, wholesome flavor and chewy texture, reminiscent of classic homemade desserts.

Why are date squares a classic dessert?

Date squares have earned their classic status because they offer a perfect balance of sweet, earthy flavors and satisfying textures. They are simple to make, use economical ingredients like dates and oats, and evoke a sense of nostalgia, connecting us to traditional baking and cherished family recipes. They truly represent comfort food at its finest.

Can I use Medjool dates instead of pitted dates?

Yes, you absolutely can! Medjool dates are wonderfully soft and sweet, making them an excellent choice for the filling. You might need slightly less water, so start with about ¾ cup and add more if needed to reach that jammy consistency. They will make your old fashioned baked date squares even more decadent.

How do I get a clean cut when slicing my date squares?

For the cleanest cuts, it’s essential to let the old fashioned date squares cool completely in the pan. For extra sharp edges, I highly recommend chilling the cooled pan of squares in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts if necessary.

Variations of Old Fashioned Date Squares You Can Try

While the classic recipe is amazing on its own, don’t be afraid to get creative with your old fashioned date squares! These variations can cater to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting treat. Trying these twists on the traditional recipe can bring a fresh perspective to a beloved classic.

Dietary Adaptations: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free as well. This makes your date and oat squares recipe accessible to more people.
Flavor Boosts: Enhance the date filling by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a richer flavor. For the crumble, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty depth.
Cooking Method Twist: While traditionally baked, you can adapt this into no-bake energy balls! Simply process the cooked date filling with oats and a binder like nut butter, then roll into balls. This offers a quicker, no-bake alternative to the old fashioned baked date squares.
Citrus Zest Addition: Incorporating orange or lemon zest directly into the crumble mixture adds a subtle, bright aroma and flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates beautifully, creating a more complex profile for your date and oat squares recipe.