DATE squares

mmmm, date squares!!

of primary significance in this recipe is the DATE.

this recipe comes from mom’s treasure trove. i’ve sampled a lot of date squares: from starbucks, café 1842 at the huether, coffee culture, a gluten-free variety from a health food store…none of the recipes match this one. i think the key *secret ingredient* is the orange juice.[date squares can be a little dry…this one is not, at all].

enjoy! and thanks, mom, for sharing!

Date Squares

(9” square pan)

Filling

2 cups pitted dates, chopped

1/2 cup white sugar

3/4 cup water

1/4 cup orange juice

grated rind of one orange

Base and Topping

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 3/4 cups rolled oats (I use large flake oatmeal.)

1/4 cup wheat germ

1 cup brown sugar

1 tsp baking soda

1/8 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup butter or margarine

To make filling, combine dates, sugar, water, orange juice, orange rind in a small saucepan.  Cook over low heat for 10 – 15 minutes or until thick and smooth.  Stir mixture frequently.

To make base and topping, combine flour, oats, wheat germ, brown sugar, baking soda, salt.  Stir well.  Cut in butter or margarine until mixture is crumbly.  Pat half this mixture into a lightly greased 9” pan.

Spread the date filling over the base.  Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over the top.  Press down lightly.

Bake 350F for 25-30 minutes.  Cut into squares when cool.