Date squares

Instructions

1- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2- Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan.

3- To make the date filing: Combine the dates and water in a medium saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil.

4- Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens, around 6 to 8 minutes.

5- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and let cool.

6- Set aside.

7- Combine rolled oats, flour, sugar, baking soda and salt in a food processor.

8- Pulse 3 times (careful not to overmix, you don’t want the mixture to be powdery, just combined).

9- Add butter and pulse again until the mixture is crumbly in pea-sized clumps.

10- Transfer to a mixing bowl to thoroughly mix in the butter.

11- Spread half of the oat mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking pan, pressing down to make a flat, equal bottom later.

12- Add the date mixture over the crust and then spread evenly.

13- Layer with the remaining oat mixture and press down to flatten the top layer.

14- Bake in the centre of the oven until the top is golden brown, 30 to 35 minutes.

15- Let cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving.

16- Date Squares keep well, covered in the refrigerator for up to a week, and frozen for 2 to 3 months.