Gramma's Classic Date Squares

Name: Gramma's Classic Date Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted dates (chopped); 1 cup water; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

60 min 12 slices Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in nostalgia with Gramma's Date Squares, a comforting treat featuring a sweet date filling and buttery oat crust.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Gramma's Date Squares are a delightful, nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories of home cooking. With a sweet and rich date filling sandwiched between layers of buttery oat crust, this classic dessert is a staple in many Canadian households. This version stays true to traditional methods while adding a few modern tweaks for ease and flavour. Perfect for those who cherish family recipes, these squares are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Prepare the date filling

Combine chopped dates, water, and 1/4 cup brown sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the dates are soft and the mixture is thick, about 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

Mix the crust ingredients

In a large bowl, mix flour, oats, 1 cup brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Pro tip: Use your hands for an even mix if needed.

Assemble the base

Press half of the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly to form the base.

Pro tip: Use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press down firmly.

Add the date filling

Spread the date mixture evenly over the base crust.

Pro tip: Ensure the filling reaches the edges for uniform flavour.

Top with remaining crust

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the date filling, pressing down lightly.

Pro tip: Cover evenly for a consistent top crust.

Bake the squares

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Pro tip: Check at 35 minutes to avoid over-browning.

Cool and serve

Allow the date squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment overhang and cutting into slices.

Pro tip: Cooling helps the squares set for cleaner cuts.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Chop dates finely for a smoother filling.
Use old-fashioned oats for a better texture.
Line your baking pan with parchment for easy removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in a date square?

Each date square contains approximately 291 calories.

Can you freeze date squares?

Yes, you can freeze date squares for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How long do date squares last?

Date squares last up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats are recommended for a chewier texture.

What can I serve with date squares?

Date squares pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these date squares warm or at room temperature, either as a standalone treat or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair well with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for cozy afternoons. To make ahead, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition per serving

291

Calories

Protein

12g

Fat

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