Nostalgic Date Walnut Bars
These Nostalgic Date Walnut Bars are a cherished family recipe that has delighted generations. Initially crafted by my beloved Grandmother during special gatherings, this treat has become a staple in our family, cherished not just for its rich flavor but also the warm memories tied to each bite. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, walnuts, and, of course, dates, these bars are not only sweet and satisfying but also evoke a sense of nostalgia that takes you back to simpler times. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own, these moist, date-filled delights are sure to become a favorite in your home too.
25
Servings
100
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
oatmeal
1 3/4 cups (uncooked)
flour
1 1/2 cups (all-purpose)
baking powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
baking soda
1 teaspoon (none)
butter
3/4 cup (melted)
brown sugar
1 cup (packed)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
chopped dates
1 lb (pitted and chopped)
sugar
3/4 cup (none)
water
1 cup (none)
butter
1 tablespoon (softened)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
chopped walnuts
1 cup (toasted (optional))
Instructions
1
Start by making the filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates, 3/4 cup sugar, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
2
Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of chopped walnuts. Allow to cool slightly.
3
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the uncooked oatmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
5
Add the melted butter and 1 cup of packed brown sugar to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
6
Press half of the mixture into a lightly greased 13x9-inch baking pan, creating an even layer.
7
Carefully spread the date filling over the crust, ensuring an even layer.
8
Top with the remaining oat mixture, pressing it down lightly to secure the filling.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Do not over-bake.
10
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
14g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nostalgic Date Walnut Bars?
These bars are a cherished family recipe made with wholesome ingredients like oats, walnuts, and dates, known for their moist texture and rich flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 25 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 100 calories.
What size pan should I use for baking?
You should use a lightly greased 13x9-inch baking pan.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long do these bars need to bake?
Bake the bars for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
What ingredients are needed for the date filling?
The filling requires 1 lb of pitted and chopped dates, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon softened butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup chopped walnuts.
What type of oats should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 3/4 cups of uncooked oatmeal.
How do I prepare the date filling?
Combine dates, sugar, and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened before adding butter, vanilla, and walnuts.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While the recipe specifies walnuts, you can use other nuts or omit them if preferred, as they are listed as optional.
Is brown sugar used in this recipe?
Yes, 1 cup of packed brown sugar is used in the oat mixture.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 5 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each bar?
There are 14 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each bar provides 1 gram of protein.
Do I need to let the bars cool before cutting?
Yes, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
What kind of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is recommended for these bars.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
How do I assemble the layers?
Press half of the oat mixture into the pan, spread the date filling over it, and then top with the remaining oat mixture.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of melted butter for the crust and 1 tablespoon of softened butter for the filling.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Bar Cookie.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
You will need 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for the filling.
Do I need baking powder and baking soda?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
How much water is used in the filling?
The filling requires 1 cup of water.
Can these be made for holidays?
Yes, these are excellent for holiday baking and sharing with loved ones.
What should the texture of the filling be?
The filling should be simmered until the mixture thickens into a spreadable consistency.
Are the walnuts toasted?
Toasting the walnuts is optional but can enhance the flavor.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 13 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Can I over-bake these bars?
The recipe advises not to over-bake; stop when they are golden brown.
Is this a family recipe?
Yes, it is a cherished recipe originally crafted by the creator's Grandmother.
How do I secure the top layer?
Press the top oat mixture down lightly to secure it to the date filling before baking.