These Gramma’s Date Squares are a nostalgic treat that combines a chewy, spiced date filling with a buttery oat crumble topping and base. Perfectly sweet and satisfying, these bars are a timeless dessert or snack that will remind you of homemade goodness. They’re easy to make and sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Date Filling:
- 1½ cups chopped dates (about 250g)
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Oat Crumble:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Date Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates, white sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until the dates soften and the mixture thickens into a paste-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the oat crumble.
Step 3: Make the Oat Crumble
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The texture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Assemble the Squares
- Reserve about ⅔ of the oat crumble mixture for the topping. Press the remaining ⅓ evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base.
- Spread the warm date filling evenly over the oat base, using a spatula to smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the reserved oat crumble mixture evenly over the date filling, pressing down lightly to help it adhere.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
- Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Tips for Success
- Date Prep: If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before chopping to soften them. Drain well before using.
- Storage: Store the date squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Freezing: These squares freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Customization: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oat crumble for extra warmth and spice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Gramma’s Date Squares are a classic treat that combines the rich, caramel-like sweetness of the date filling with the buttery, crunchy texture of the oat crumble. These bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, and their wholesome ingredients make them feel like a comforting hug in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them solo, these date squares are sure to bring joy and nostalgia to your table. Dive into this timeless recipe and savor the magic of homemade goodness!
