Discover the nostalgic charm of Matrimonial Bars, a classic dessert that combines a luscious, naturally sweet date filling with a buttery oat crumb crust. This timeless treat features a rich layer of cooked pitted dates, simmered to perfection with a touch of sugar, nestled between two layers of golden, crumbly oat goodness. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, these bars are easy to prepare with pantry staples like rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter, making them an ideal dessert or snack for any occasion. Ready in under an hour and served in generous, satisfying squares, Matrimonial Bars are a heartwarming delight thatβs perfect for sharing with family and friends. Store leftovers easily for a grab-and-go treat that only gets better with time.
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted dates, water, and granulated sugar over medium heat. Cook while stirring until the dates break down and form a thick paste, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until a crumbly mixture forms.
Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
Gently spread the cooked date mixture over the oat base, ensuring an even layer.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the date filling, pressing it lightly to adhere.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and firm.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cooled, cut into 12 squares or bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Calories |
4660 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 155.7 g | 200% | |
| Saturated Fat | 92.9 g | 465% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 388 mg | 129% | |
| Sodium | 1303 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 824.7 g | 300% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 49.1 g | 175% | |
| Total Sugars | 566.7 g | ||
| Protein | 43.9 g | 88% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 610 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 18.6 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 4287 mg | 91% | |
*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.