Date Squares
Classic Canadian date squares featuring a sweet, sticky date filling sandwiched between a buttery, crumbly oat topping and base.
Ingredients
- 250 mL water
- 450 g pitted dates — chopped
- 125 mL granulated sugar — for filling
- 5 mL vanilla extract — for filling
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 200 g rolled oats
- 175 g packed light brown sugar
- 2 ½ mL baking soda
- 250 g cold unsalted butter — cut into cubes
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry blender (optional)
Instructions
Tip: tap Start Cooking for hands-free step mode with built-in timers.
- 1
Prepare the date filling: In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates, 250 mL water, and 125 mL granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates break down and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 5 mL vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
10 min timer - 2
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease and flour a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking pan, or line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- 3
Prepare the crumble topping/base: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and baking soda.
- 4
Cut in the cold butter: Using a pastry blender, two knives, or your fingertips, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Do not overmix.
- 5
Form the base: Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Press firmly to create a compact base.
- 6
Add the filling: Spread the cooled date filling evenly over the oat base.
- 7
Add the topping: Crumble the remaining oat mixture evenly over the date filling.
- 8
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
35 min timer - 9
Cool completely before cutting: Let the date squares cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. This is crucial for clean cuts.
Notes
- Cooling completely is key for clean cuts. If you cut them warm, they will fall apart.
- For extra flavour, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture.
Substitutions
- Rolled oats: Quick oats (texture will be slightly different)
- Light brown sugar: Dark brown sugar (will result in a richer molasses flavour)
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezer
Freeze individual squares in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition not calculated. Cook temperatures follow Health Canada guidance where cited.
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