Date Bars

9 x 13

 

Base and Topping layer:

1 1/2 cup flour

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup brown sugar

1 1/2 cup quick oats

3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

 

Date layer:

12 ounces pitted dates, chopped

1 1/4 cup water

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/8 tsp. salt

 

Blend the base and topping layer in a large bowl until blended. Press half into your prepared pan. Top with cooked date layer* and then lightly press the other half on top of the dates.

 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. *Bring the date layer ingredients to a boil in a medium saucepan. Turn down and simmer 8-10 minutes until thickened, stirring often. Bake 45 minutes until lightly browned.