Date Bars

This is probably the most requested cookie/bar in my house - sweet dates cooked to perfection, sandwiched between a nutty oatmeal crumble. They are wholesome and rich in flavor. I like to prepare these during the holidays.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Yields: 12 bars

Ingredients:

2 cups instant oats

4 tablespoons maple syrup, divided

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

9 tablespoons water, divided

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 pound pitted Medjool dates, chopped

3 tablespoons chopped walnuts

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon almond extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a 9 x 9 inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, mix the oatmeal, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, applesauce, 4 tablespoons of the water, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This should have a thick consistency.

3. Firmly press half the oatmeal mixture into the prepared pan. Reserve the remaining oatmeal crumble for the top.

4. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the dates, walnuts, remaining 1 tablespoon maple syrup, remaining 5 tablespoons water, lemon juice, and almond extract, stirring constantly until thickened, about 10 minutes.

5. Spread the thickened date mixture evenly over the oatmeal crumble mixture using a spatula. Top with the remaining oat mixture and press lightly.

6. Bake until golden brown, 25-30 minutes.

7. Cool thoroughly and cut into 12 bars.

Kim's hints:

• Silicone pans will not stick and you won't need to use parchment paper. Amazon sells silicone baking mats, bread pans, muffin molds, and casserole pans that are very inexpensive. I highly recommend them if you bake often.

• I like to drizzle a light coating of powdered sugar and water over the top for a garnish. This is not necessary and adds extra sugar, special occasions only!