Sweets

Oatmeal Date Bars

Author: Mary DiSomma

As seen on WGN9 Lunchbreak, January 8, 2021.

My family-famous Date Bar recipe is great because it is easy to follow. My Uncle Ralph says these bars may not be the prettiest on the Christmas platter but not to let that fool you: these bars are nothing short of incredibly delicious. Chop up a little candied orange peel and add it to the date mixture for a twist.

Oatmeal Date Bars

Yield
16 Bars
Prep Time
10 minutes 10 min
Cook Time
25 minutes 25 min
Total Time
35 minutes 35 min

Ingredients

For the Crust

For the Filling

For the Garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare the pan. Cut two pieces of parchment paper in 9- by 14-inch pieces. Line a 9- by 9-inch sheet pan with the parchment paper in a crisscross manner. The paper should go over the sides of the pan. This will help remove the bars once they are baked.
  2. In a large bowl, combine oats, pastry flour, salt, 2⁄3 cup brown sugar, baking soda, coconut, and cinnamon, if using. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
  3. In a small, heavy-gauge saucepot, combine dates, water, and remaining 1⁄3 cup brown sugar. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened. Stir in vanilla and lemon juice or almond extract. Remove from heat.
  4. Place half of the dough into prepared pan. Gently press the dough to cover the pan. Bake the oat crust for 5 to 7 minutes. Spread filling over base. Scatter the remaining oat dough over the filling. Gently pat the crumbs into the filling. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until top is lightly toasted. Cool completely. Using the parchment paper, gently lift the baked cookies from the pan. Cut into squares.
  5. When ready to serve, dust with confectioners’ sugar or powdered coconut milk. These cookies can be served in paper muffin liners.
Oatmeal Date Bars

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