A Classic Canadian Treat with a Buttery Oat Crumble and Sweet Date Filling
If you’re in the mood for a cozy, old-fashioned dessert that tastes like something your grandmother might’ve made, Newfoundland Date Squares are the answer. With a chewy, caramel-like date filling sandwiched between two buttery oat layers, these bars are as comforting as they are timeless.
This humble Canadian classic combines pantry staples into something truly special. The sweet date mixture is cooked down to a thick jammy spread, while the oat crumb layers bake up golden and slightly crisp. Whether served with a cup of tea, packed in a lunchbox, or sliced up for holiday trays, these squares deliver rich flavor with every bite.
Let’s break down what makes these a beloved bake, how to get the perfect texture, and a few ways to make them your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason date squares are a staple in Canadian kitchens. Here’s what makes them shine:
- Old-School Comfort: Classic flavor that feels like a warm hug.
- Jammy, Rich Filling: Sweetened dates cook down into a soft, spreadable layer.
- Oat & Brown Sugar Crumble: Buttery, hearty, and perfectly crisp on top.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Great for Make-Ahead: These bars slice beautifully once cooled and store well for days.
Preparation and Baking Time
This nostalgic treat comes together with just a bit of stovetop time and a quick bake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Date Filling:
- 2 cups chopped dates
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Layers:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the dates break down into a paste. Stir in the lemon juice, remove from heat, and set aside to cool.
2. Prep the Pan & Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Mix the Crumb Base & Topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble the Squares:
Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of your pan to form the crust. Spread the date filling evenly on top. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the filling and press gently to set.
5. Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the kitchen smells buttery and sweet. Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Slice & Serve:
Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment (if using) and slice into squares. Store at room temperature or in the fridge—if they last that long!
Serving Suggestions
- With Afternoon Tea: The perfect partner for an earl grey or herbal brew.
- Topped with Whipped Cream: A little dollop makes these feel extra special.
- Warm with Ice Cream: Heat slightly and top with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Tips & Variations
- Nutty Option: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for extra crunch.
- Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical edge.
- Citrus Boost: Use orange juice instead of lemon for a warmer flavor profile.
- Bigger Batch: Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan if you’re feeding a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Newfoundland Date Squares are the kind of recipe that sticks with you—simple, satisfying, and packed with nostalgic flavor. Whether you grew up with them or are discovering them for the first time, they’re a comforting reminder that sometimes, the best desserts are the ones baked from the heart.
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Newfoundland Date Squares
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
If you’re in the mood for a cozy, old-fashioned dessert that tastes like something your grandmother might’ve made, Newfoundland Date Squares are the answer. With a chewy, caramel-like date filling sandwiched between two buttery oat layers, these bars are as comforting as they are timeless.
Ingredients
For the Date Filling:
2 cups chopped dates
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Layers:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups rolled oats
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
1. Make the Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped dates, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the dates break down into a paste. Stir in the lemon juice, remove from heat, and set aside to cool.
2. Prep the Pan & Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Mix the Crumb Base & Topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble the Squares:
Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of your pan to form the crust. Spread the date filling evenly on top. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the filling and press gently to set.
5. Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the kitchen smells buttery and sweet. Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Slice & Serve:
Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment (if using) and slice into squares. Store at room temperature or in the fridge—if they last that long!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
