Oatmeal Date Bars are the perfect blend of chewy and sweet with a wholesome touch. These bars feature a rich date filling nestled between layers of buttery, crumbly oatmeal. They’re easy to make, offering a delightful balance between the natural sweetness of dates and the nutty flavor of oats. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee or a light dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy. They’re also versatile—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even breakfast on the go.
Ingredients:
For the date filling:
- 2 cups pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the oatmeal crust:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the filling: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the dates are soft and the mixture thickens, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the crust and topping: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.
- Assemble the bars: Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Spread the date filling over the oat crust. Top with the remaining oat mixture, gently pressing it down to cover the filling.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy! These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
