Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Old Fashioned Date Squares

Old Fashioned Date Squares: 15 Min Divine Recipe

  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 squares 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Old-Fashioned Date Squares feature a buttery oat crumble layered with a rich, jammy date filling. Soft in the middle and crisp on top, these nostalgic bars taste just like Grandma used to make — cozy, wholesome, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with tea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Make the Date Filling: In a saucepan, combine dates and water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in baking soda (it will bubble) and cook until thick and jam-like. Add vanilla and optional citrus. Let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Crumble: In a large bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
  3. Assemble: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom. Spread the date filling evenly, then top with the remaining oat crumble, pressing lightly.
  4. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Cool and Slice: Let cool completely before cutting into squares. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Prepare filling up to 3 days in advance or freeze for a month.
  • Storage: Keep at room temperature up to 3 days, refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Variations: Add chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or substitute whole wheat flour for a rustic twist.
  • Serving: Delicious warm or chilled, paired with coffee, tea, or vanilla ice cream.
  • Tip: Don’t overbake — they should stay soft in the middle and golden on top.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Bars, Old-Fashioned Recipes
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: North American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Old-Fashioned Date Squares, Date Bars, Oatmeal Date Bars, Classic Dessert Bars, Grandma’s Baking Recipes, Homemade Date Squares, Traditional Date Bars

Find it online: https://www.recipesmolly.com/old-fashioned-date-squares/