These date-filled bars are easy to make with a basic shortbread-like crust and simple date and chopped nut filling. Make these easy date bars for a weekend treat or potluck take-along.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Date Filling: 9 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces chopped dates
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup water
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 stick (4 ounces) butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 large egg
Preparation:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the dates, nuts, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer until thickened, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
Heat oven to 350°. Lightly grease a 9x13x3-inch baking pan or spray with baking spray.
In a mixing bowl with electric mixer, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and egg. Mix until crumbly. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture and pat the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom or the prepared baking pan. Spoon date mixture evenly over the crust and spread gently to cover. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1 cup of crumbs. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until browned.
Cool before cutting.
