Matrimonial Squares (Date Squares)

1 ¼ c flour

1 ½ c rolled oats

1 c packed brown sugar

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ tsp cinnamon

1 c cold butter

½ pound pitted dates, diced (250 g) (approx 1 ½ c) *

2/3 c water

½ c white sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Mix in the butter until crumbly. Press almost 2/3 of this mixture into a greased 9 inch square baking pan. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the dates, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, and simmer it until thickened. Remove from heat. Spread the filling over the base, and pat the remaining crumb mixture on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until top is lightly toasted. Cool before cutting into squares.

* Note: The Bulk Barn sells pre-diced dates which are perfect for this recipe.