Matrimonial Bars /Date Squares

Discover the irresistible charm of matrimonial bars, a beloved Canadian prairie dessert featuring buttery oat crumble layers hugging a sweet, gooey date filling that's not only budget-friendly but can be made ahead for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or cozy afternoon treats.

Course Dessert

Cuisine Canadian

Keyword Christmas Desserts

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 50

Servings squares

Calories 100kcal

Equipment

1 8 inch square baking pan

Ingredients

Filling

2 1/2 cups Medjool dates pitted and chopped 425 g
1 cup water 250 ml
2 tbsp lemon juice 30 ml
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda

Topping

1 3/4 cups quick or large flake oats 175 g
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour 150 g
3/4 cup brown sugar 160 g
1/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 cup unsalted butter softened 170 g

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 °F (180 °C). 8-inch square baking dish, preparing with non stick glaze*

Filling

Place dates water, lemon juice, and brown sugar in a saucepan bring to a boil. Turn down the heat and add the baking soda, stirring with a wooden spoon for 5 minutes or until the dates have fallen apart. Take the saucepan off the stove and let cool.

Topping

Combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl and then add the butter, stirring to combine.
Spread half the topping in the bottom of the baking pan, pressing firmly into the corners. Spread the filling on top of the base layer. Cover with the remaining topping and press lightly.
Bake for 40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack until completely cooled. Cut into 16 squares.

Notes

*make your own non stick glaze

Nutrition