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–+ servings

Simple 5-Ingredient Date Bars

These simple date bars are buttery, chewy, and naturally sweet thanks to a thick homemade date filling layered between a golden oat crumble crust and topping. With pantry staples and minimal prep, they make a wholesome snack or cozy dessert perfect with coffee or tea.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Baked Goods, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups pitted dates chopped
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water. Simmer over medium heat for 5–8 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture becomes thick and jam-like. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
  • Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until crumbly and evenly moistened.
  • Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  • Spread the date mixture evenly over the crust layer.
  • Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the date filling and gently press it down.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and fragrant.
  • Let the bars cool completely before lifting from the pan and cutting into 12 squares.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chopped walnuts to the oat mixture.

Nutrition

Calories: 260kcal
Keyword date bars, easy dessert bars, homemade date squares, oat crumble bars, old fashioned dessert
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