Date Crumb Squares Simple Vegetarian Pleasures Jeanne Lenlim Yield: about 35 2-inch squares The Filling: ¾ pound pitted dates ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar ⅔ cup water 1 tsp. vanillla extract The Crust: 1½ cups unbleached flour 1½ cups quick oats 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar ½ tsp. baking soda 1½ sticks (12 Tbsp.) cold unsalted butter Combine the filling ingredients in a medium-size saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook 1 minute, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 350o. Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Puree the date mixture in a food processor and set aside. To make the crust, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and baking soda in a large bowl. Stir to evenly mix it. Cut the butter into bits, drop it into the mxiture, and toss to coat it. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until even crumbs form. Pour half the contents into the baking dish and pat it down evenly. Spoon the date mixture on it and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Crumble the remaining flour mixture over the date layer and press it down lightly. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until evenly golden. Cool completely before cutting it into 2-inch squares. Store well wrapped at room temperature, or freeze up to 1 month and bring to room temperature before serving.

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