Date Squares
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Canadian

Date Squares

Classic Canadian date squares with a glossy, gently spiced date filling sandwiched between two layers of buttery oat crumble. The edges bake crisp while the center stays tender and chewy.

65 min 16 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Heat the oven to 180°C. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment, leaving overhang on two sides for lifting out the finished slab.
2
Combine the chopped dates, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the dates collapse into a thick, spreadable paste. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.
3
In a large bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until evenly moistened and crumbly, with no dry pockets.
4
Press just over half of the crumble mixture firmly into the lined pan, creating an even layer about 1 cm thick. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it without crushing the oats.
5
Spread the warm date filling evenly over the base, leaving a narrow 5 mm border. Scatter the remaining crumble over the top and press it lightly so it adheres while remaining textured.
Date filling spread beneath the final oat crumble layer AI-generated image
6
Bake on the middle rack for 38 to 40 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the top is golden brown and the date layer is bubbling lightly at the edges. Cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour.
7
Lift the slab out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean layers, and serve.
Golden date squares with visible oat crumble layers and jammy centers AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Cooking the dates with water and lemon creates a thick, jammy layer, while brown sugar and oats give the crumble a deep caramel flavor and pleasantly sandy texture.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Freeze well wrapped for up to 2 months, separating layers with parchment.

How to reheat it

For a warm texture, heat one square in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, or place on a baking sheet in a 160°C oven for 5 to 7 minutes.

Nutrition / serving

264kcal
4.26 gprotein
41.91 gcarbs
9.84 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 16 Aug 2026 · updated 17 Aug 2026