A date bar recipe is a wholesome dessert favorite with roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where dates have long been prized for their natural sweetness. This classic dessert has become a staple for many, blending sweet dates with a buttery, nutty oat crust that’s both rich and comforting. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee or packing them for a snack, these bars satisfy cravings with simple ingredients. Unlike many treats, date bars recipes offer a boost of nutrients and fiber, making them a popular choice for health-conscious bakers looking to enjoy something delicious and nutritious.
Date Bar Recipe
Cuisine: Middle EasternDifficulty: Easy16
servings15
minutes25
minutes180
kcalThese date bars blend the natural sweetness of dates with a delicious oat-nut crust for a treat that’s comforting, wholesome, and wonderfully satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Filling
Medjool dates (pitted and chopped): 1 ½ cups
Water: 1 cup
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- For the crust and Topping
Rolled oats: 1 ½ cups
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): 1 cup
Brown sugar: ¾ cup
Baking soda: ½ tsp
Salt: ¼ tsp
Butter (melted): ¾ cup
Chopped walnuts or pecans: ½ cup (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, combine chopped dates and water. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until dates are softened. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and mash slightly until smooth.
- Make the Crust and Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan to form the base.
- Add the Filling: Spread the date mixture evenly over the crust layer.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the date layer and gently press down. Add chopped nuts if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool before slicing them into squares for easy serving.
Notes
- Soft Dates: Use soft, Medjool dates for the best texture. If your dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking.
- Sweetener Alternatives: For a lower-sugar option, swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or reduce the amount slightly, as dates add natural sweetness.
Tips for the perfect Date Bar Recipe
- Chill for Cleaner Slices: Refrigerate for about an hour before slicing for cleaner, more defined bars.
- Extra Crunch: Toast the oats and nuts slightly before adding them to bring out a rich, toasty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Recipe Variants
- Date and Nut Bars: Add 1/4 cup of chopped almonds or walnuts to the filling for extra texture.
- Chocolate Chip Date Bars: Add 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips to the topping for a richer flavor.
- Vegan Date Bars: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to make these bars vegan-friendly.
FAQ
Yes, dried figs or apricots can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different. Dates are recommended for their rich sweetness.
Absolutely! Date bars keep well and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to three months.
Rolled oats provide the best texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch. Avoid instant oats, as they may turn mushy.
If you love these wholesome date bars, try our Cashew Milk Recipe for a creamy, plant-based milk that pairs perfectly with these bars and enhances their natural flavors! And if you are looking for a different and classic dessert bar, I suggest Twix Bar recipe!
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this date bar recipe will quickly become a favorite. With its rich layers of oats and dates and an optional nutty crunch, it’s the ideal snack or dessert for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with something nourishing. Plus, it’s easily customizable with different flour or nut options, fitting into various dietary preferences. Next time you need a quick and delicious dessert or snack, these date bars will hit the spot perfectly!
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