date nut bars recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
date nut bars recipe
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The Best date nut bars recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite date nut bars recipe with you all! I’ve been making these delicious treats for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. The story behind these bars is that they originated from the Middle East, where dates are a staple ingredient.

The combination of sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and a hint of spice is absolute perfection. When I first tried these bars, I was hooked – the texture and flavor are just right. And the best part?

They’re incredibly easy to make! I love that you can customize the recipe to your liking by using different types of nuts or adding in other spices. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for getting them involved.

We love making these bars for special occasions or as a quick snack during the week. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with nutritious ingredients like dates, nuts, and oats. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too once you try it!

Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a tasty dessert, these date nut bars are sure to please. They’re also perfect for packing in lunches or taking on-the-go. I’ve even been known to sneak a few into my own lunchbox (no judgment!)

The aroma of baking dates and nuts is just heavenly, and it’s something that always puts me in a good mood. So go ahead, give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Date Nut Bars

Date Nut Bars

4.5 from 1114 votes

These date nut bars are a chewy, sweet, and nutty snack made with a buttery oat crust and a rich date filling. They are perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Filling

1 1/2 cups pitted dates, chopped
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
4Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed unsalted butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
6Set the remaining mixture aside for the topping.
7In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups chopped pitted dates, 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
8Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the dates soften and the mixture thickens into a paste, about 5 to 7 minutes.
9Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
10Spread the date filling evenly over the crust in the pan.
11Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top, pressing down lightly to ensure it adheres.
12Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
13The bars should feel firm to the touch.
14Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

🔧Equipment

9×9 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Saucepan
Fork or pastry cutter
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 9g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 95mg🌾Total Carbs: 34g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 21g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with an equal amount of sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Date Nut Bars Works

These date nut bars are a reliable recipe that I turn to again and again. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and always please a crowd.

I love that they are portable and keep well, so I can pack them for road trips or send them in lunchboxes. For family gatherings, they are a hit because they are not too sweet and feel satisfying.

I hope you give them a try and enjoy them as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Date Nut Bars

Q: What type of nuts can I use in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of nut you like – almonds, walnuts, pecans, or even peanuts work well. Just be sure to chop them up into small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the dough.

Q: Can I substitute honey for the maple syrup?

A: Yes, you can use honey instead of maple syrup if you prefer a stronger flavor. Keep in mind that honey has a slightly different consistency than maple syrup, so you may need to adjust the amount used accordingly.

Q: How long do these bars keep fresh?

A: These bars will keep for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make these bars vegan?

A: Yes, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener of your choice.

Q: Why do you use oats in this recipe?

A: The oats add a lovely texture and help bind the ingredients together. You can also use other types of flour if you prefer – just be aware that it may affect the overall flavor.

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