Classic Date Oatmeal Bars
These Classic Date Oatmeal Bars are a nostalgic treat inspired by the beloved Awrey's Bakery in Detroit. Packed with sweet, caramel-like dates and crunchy nuts, these bars marry the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with the rich flavors of brown sugar and butter. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a midday snack, these bars evoke memories of home-baked goodness and are sure to become a favorite in your own kitchen. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
dates
1 (package (8 ounces), chopped)
water
1/2 (cup)
granulated sugar
1/2 (cup)
chopped nuts
1 (cup (optional))
brown sugar
1 1/2 (cups)
butter
3/4 (cup, softened)
quick oatmeal
1 1/2 (cups, dry)
salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
flour
1 1/2 (cups)
baking soda
1 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. If desired, you can also substitute with raspberry or strawberry jam for a different flavor.
2
In a large bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat until creamy. Add the flour, quick oatmeal, salt, and baking soda, mixing until well blended to create a crumbly dough.
3
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4
Butter an 8x8x2 inch baking pan. Press half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it covers the base evenly and firmly.
5
Spread the prepared date filling (or jam) evenly over the oatmeal layer.
6
Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the filling, pressing down lightly to create a uniform top layer.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
8
Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Date Oatmeal Bars?
They are nostalgic treats featuring sweet dates and crunchy nuts between layers of buttery oatmeal.
What inspired this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the famous Awrey's Bakery in Detroit.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What size baking pan is required?
You should use an 8x8x2 inch baking pan.
How do I prepare the date filling?
Combine chopped dates and water in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth and caramelized.
Can I use a substitute for the date filling?
Yes, you can use raspberry or strawberry jam instead of the date mixture for a different flavor.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, you should butter the pan before adding the oatmeal mixture.
What type of oatmeal is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for quick oatmeal.
Should the butter be cold or softened?
The butter should be softened for easier mixing.
How long do I cook the date filling?
Cook the filling for about 5 to 7 minutes while stirring continuously.
What are the main ingredients for the crust?
The crust contains butter, brown sugar, white sugar, flour, quick oatmeal, salt, and baking soda.
How do I assemble the bottom layer?
Press half of the oatmeal mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the buttered pan.
How do I apply the top layer?
Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture over the filling and press down lightly to create a uniform top layer.
What is the baking time?
Bake the bars for 10 to 15 minutes.
How do I tell when the bars are finished baking?
The bars are done when the top is lightly golden brown.
Why should I let the bars cool before cutting?
Allowing them to cool in the pan helps them set properly so they can be cut into clean squares.
Are nuts mandatory in this recipe?
No, chopped nuts are an optional ingredient for added texture.
What types of sugar are used in the dough?
The dough uses both brown sugar and granulated white sugar.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
What leavening agent is used for these bars?
One teaspoon of baking soda is used as the leavening agent.
Can I serve these bars warm?
Yes, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
What is the texture of the filling?
The cooked date filling has a sweet, caramel-like texture.
How much water is needed for the date filling?
You will need 1/2 cup of water to cook with the dates.
How much flour is required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of flour.
What amount of dates should I use?
Use one 8-ounce package of chopped dates.
What categories do these bars fall into?
They are categorized as date cookies, oatmeal bars, and sweet treats.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is considered an easy bakery-style recipe.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients including the optional nuts.
Are these bars good for sharing at gatherings?
Yes, they are described as an ideal treat for sharing or enjoying as a midday snack.