Best 2 Classic Date Bars Recipes

Indulge in the delectable Classic Date Bars, a timeless treat that marries the chewy texture of dates with a sweet and buttery oat crumb crust. These delectable bars are not only a nostalgic favorite but also a delightful option for those with dietary restrictions, as they are naturally gluten-free and vegan. This recipe collection offers two variations: a traditional version with a luscious filling made from dates, sugar, and water, and a refined sugar-free alternative that substitutes maple syrup for a healthier twist. Both variations promise an explosion of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.

The traditional Classic Date Bars embody the perfect balance of sweet and chewy, with a generous layer of chopped dates sandwiched between two layers of oat crumb crust. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the dates to shine through, complemented by the buttery richness of the crust.

For those seeking a healthier alternative, the Refined Sugar-Free Date Bars offer a guilt-free indulgence. By replacing refined sugar with maple syrup, this variation maintains the delectable taste of the classic recipe while reducing the overall sugar content. The result is a bar that is not only delicious but also mindful of your well-being.

No matter your dietary preferences, the Classic Date Bars and Refined Sugar-Free Date Bars are sure to satisfy your cravings for a sweet and wholesome treat. With their simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these recipes are accessible to bakers of all skill levels. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you with a batch of irresistible date bars that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CLASSIC DATE BARS

CLASSIC DATE BARS image

Categories Cake Fruit Quick & Easy

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

8 ozs. chopped Dates
1/2 cup Water
1 1/2 tsp. Vanilla
1 1/2 cups Quick Cooking Oats
1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
1 cup firmly packed Brown
Sugar
3/4 tsp. Baking Soda
3/4 tsp. Salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) Butter (melted)
1 cup finely chopped Walnuts or Pecans

Steps:

Combine dates and water in saucepabn, bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally for 3 - 4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in Vanilla. Combine Oats, Flour, Brown Sugar, Baking Soda and Salt in bowl, mix well. Stir in Butter. Spread 2 1/2 cups Oat Mixture in bottom of a 9 inch square baking pan; press gently to make a firm crust. Top with Date filling. Combine nuts with remaining Oat mixture, sprinkle over Date filling. Press gently into filling. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pan on wire rack. Cut into 36 squares.

CLASSIC DATE BARS

CLASSIC DATE BARS image

Joan Buckley brought these to Curious Cuisiners on March 18th and recommends that she would make these in a larger pan than an 8" square since they are very thick and crumbly.

Provided by Ginny Carriera

Categories Fruit Desserts

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1 1/2 c water
1 1/2 c chopped, pitted dates
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 c all purpose flour
1 c packed dark brown sugar
1 c old fashioned oats
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 c unsalted butter, diced, at room temperature (1 1/2 sticks)

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350. Butter 8x8" metal baking pan. Bring 1 1/2 cups water to simmer in medium saucepan. Add dates, simmer until very soft and thick, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Cool at room temperature. Stir in vanilla.
2. Combine flour, sugar, oats, cinnamon, baking soda and salt in large bowl, stir to blend. Add butter. Using fingertips, rub in until moist clumps form. Press half of the oat mixture evenly over bottom of prepared pan. Spread date mixture over. Sprinkle with remaining oat mixture, press gently to adhere. Bake until brown at edges and golden brown and set in center, about 40 minutes. Cool completely in pan on rack. Cut into bars and serve.

Tips:

Use High-Quality Dates: Opt for soft, plump dates for a rich and flavorful result.
Remove the Pits: Carefully remove the pits from the dates before using them to ensure a smooth texture.
Soak the Dates: Soaking the dates in hot water softens them, making them easier to blend and mix with other ingredients.
Use a Food Processor: A food processor is the most efficient tool for creating a smooth and uniform date paste.
Add Spices: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the flavor of the date bars.
Chill the Crust: Chilling the crust before baking helps prevent it from becoming too crumbly.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake the date bars until the crust is golden brown and the center is set.
Cool Completely: Allow the date bars to cool completely before cutting them into bars, this will help them hold their shape better.

Conclusion:

Classic date bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of dates with a buttery oatmeal crust. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delectable bars that are perfect for any occasion. Remember to use high-quality dates, soak them to soften them, and bake the bars until the crust is golden brown. Experiment with different spices and toppings to customize the flavor and presentation of your date bars. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or a special treat, classic date bars are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.