Date Squares
Date squares are a classic Canadian bakeshop staple. Sweet date filling sandwiched between an oat and brown sugar crumble.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- 8 inch square pan
- Pastry blender optional
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
DATE FILLING
- 2½ cups pitted dates
- 1½ cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
OAT CRUMBLE
- 1¾ cups large flake or quick cooking oats
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350℉/180℃. Grease an 8 inch square baking pan or dish and line with parchment paper.
FOR THE DATE FILLING
- In a saucepan combine the dates, water and salt. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Allow the dates to cook into a smooth paste, stirring constantly, about 7-8 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Set aside to cool completely.
FOR THE OAT CRUMBLE
- In a large bowl combine the rolled oats, all purpose flour, brown sugar and salt. Mix together well.
- Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press slightly more than half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Pack it down firmly. Spread the cooled date filling evenly over this base, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over top. Press down lightly to even surface.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are very lightly golden and the top feels firm. Cool completely before cutting into squares.