Indulge in the wholesome goodness of these Best Date Bars, a delightful treat that can be enjoyed fresh or stored in the freezer for later enjoyment. With the richness of pitted dates, the delightful crunch of coarsely chopped walnuts (optional), and the comforting touch of quick-cooking oats, these bar cookies are a beloved creation from Dorothy Deleske in Scottsdale, Arizona.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2½ cups pitted dates, cut up
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1½ cups water
- ⅓ cup coarsely chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1½ cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon water
PREPARATIONS:
- In a saucepan, cook dates, sugar, and water until very thick, stirring frequently. Stir in walnuts (if using) and let the mixture cool.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking soda. Add oats and brown sugar to the mixture. Cut in softened butter until crumbly. Sprinkle water over the mixture and stir lightly.
- Pat half of the mixture into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Spread the date mixture over it and cover with the remaining oat mixture. Pat it lightly.
- Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool the bars in the pan on a wire rack, then cut into squares.
YIELD: 40 bars
BAKING TIME: 35-40 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Consider adding coarsely chopped walnuts for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
- Use a greased baking pan to prevent sticking and make it easier to cut the bars.
TIPS:
- For an effortless and quick breakfast or snack, make a batch of these date bars and store them in the freezer. Simply grab one whenever you need a wholesome treat on the go.
In conclusion, the Best Date Bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a wholesome and indulgent treat. Created by Dorothy Deleske in Scottsdale, Arizona, these bars are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be enjoyed fresh or stored in the freezer for future indulgence.
The richness of pitted dates, skillfully combined with the comforting crunch of coarsely chopped walnuts (if used), creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The quick-cooking oats provide a delightful texture that enhances the wholesome goodness of these bar cookies.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, the Best Date Bars are a true delight for all occasions. Store them in the freezer, and you’ll always have a convenient and wholesome treat ready to enjoy on the go or whenever a craving strikes.
As you savor each delicious bite, you’ll appreciate the wholesome goodness and the thoughtful preparation that has gone into creating these delightful date bars. Dorothy Deleske’s recipe from Scottsdale, Arizona, showcases the abundance of dates in the region and celebrates the joy of creating delectable treats from local produce.
Whether shared with friends and family or enjoyed in a moment of solitude, the Best Date Bars are sure to bring joy and delight to your day. So, embrace the goodness of these bars, and make them a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire.
