Date Squares

By d_s1

Ingredients

• Filling:
• 1 lb dates, chopped (about 3 cups)
• 2 Tbsp sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla
• Base and topping:
• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

Preparation

Step 1

To make filling, in saucepan, combine dates, sugar, water and lemon juice. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently, stirring often, until thickened - about 10 minutes. Cool.
For base and topping, cream shortening. Add brown sugar . Beat well. Combine flour, baking soda and oats and stir well. Stir flour mixture into shortening mixture. Mixture should be a little crumbly. Pat two-thirds of flour mixture into bottom of 9 x 13-inch baking dish that has been greased or lined with waxed paper or parchment paper. Spread date mixture on top. Sprinkle with remaining flour mixture. Press down slightly.
Bake in preheated 375 degree F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top is browned lightly. Cool slightly and cut into squares.