Get ready to experience a nostalgic journey of flavor with these irresistible Old Fashioned Crumble Date Bars! Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced treat that combines the sweet, caramel-like richness of dates with a buttery, crumbly oat crust that melts in your mouth. These bars are not just a dessert; they're a time machine that transports you to grandma's kitchen, where every bite tells a story of comfort and tradition. Whether you're looking for a delightful afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these date bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates with 1/2 cup of water. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the dates break down and form a smooth, spreadable paste. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the softened butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, even base layer.
- Spread the cooled date paste evenly over the crumb base, ensuring complete and consistent coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the date layer, creating a rustic, crumbly topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This allows the bars to set and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 rectangular bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Date Paste Perfection: Take your time when cooking the dates. Stir frequently and ensure they break down into a smooth paste for the best texture.
- Butter Matters: Use room temperature butter and work it into the crumb mixture thoroughly. This creates that signature crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Pan Preparation: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes for cleaner, more precise slices.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. These bars actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
- Customization Option: Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts to the crumb mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Enjoy these bars with a cup of hot coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
