Indulge in the rich, chewy decadence of Food for the Gods, a classic dessert bar loaded with the luxurious flavors of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for festive gatherings or any time you crave something special, this recipe combines simple pantry staples like flour, brown sugar, and vanilla with the irresistible texture of dried fruits and nuts. Each bite offers a balanced contrast of sweetness and nuttiness, with a soft, moist center and subtly crisp edges. Quick and easy to prepare in under an hour, these date and walnut bars make 16 servings, ideal for sharing or savoring as a treat with coffee or tea. Whether you're looking to impress holiday guests or satisfy a dessert craving, Food for the Gods will transport your taste buds to pure bliss!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chopped dates and walnuts using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan. Cut it into 16 squares or bars. Serve and enjoy!
Calories |
3189 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 139.3 g | 179% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.5 g | 198% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 496 mg | 165% | |
| Sodium | 1235 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 473.0 g | 172% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 24.1 g | 86% | |
| Total Sugars | 347.2 g | ||
| Protein | 49.4 g | 99% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 348 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 2030 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.