Date bars

Date Bars

Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture.

Crumb mixture

13/4 cups quick oats

1 3/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature

Filling

8 ounces chopped dates

1/2 cup water

1 cup sugar

Preheat oven to 350F.

To prepare crumb mixture, combine all ingredients and stir until well blended. Press half the mixture into a well-greased 8-inch square baking dish.

To prepare filling, stir together all ingredients in a small saucepan. Cook and stir over medium heat until bubbly and smooth. Pour filling evenly over crumb mixture.

Spread remaining crumb mixture over filling. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown. Cut into squares and serve when cool. Serves 16.

Source: Recipe by Mildred Hennon, Newton, Iowa

Per serving: 290 calories, 12g fat, 3g protein, 46g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, 160mg sodium.