Date Bars

Ingredients:

• 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, softened
• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and smooth.
5. Spread the date mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
6. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the date layer.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.
8. Enjoy your delicious Date Bars! Great for a sweet snack or dessert.