Date Squares
Presenting a couple of snack options that pack the goodness of healthy food items like Dates in a form that appeals to both, young and old alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1⁄2 cups rolled oats
- 1 1⁄2 cups sifted pastry flour
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1⁄3 cup sugar
- 3⁄4 cup softened margarine
- 1 1⁄2 cup diced pitted dates
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Method
- Preheat oven to 175ºC (350ºF).
- In a large bowl, combine oats, pastry flour, salt, 1 cup sugar, and baking soda. Mix in the margarine until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch square baking pan.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the dates, water, and 1⁄3 cup sugar. Bring to a boil, and cook until thickened. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Spread the filling over the base, and pat the remaining crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in preheated oven, or until top is lightly toasted. Cool before cutting into squares.
