Name: Date and Nut Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup boiling water; 2 cups dates; ½ cup shortening; 1 cup white sugar; ⅛ tsp ground cinnamon; ¾ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg; 2 eggs; 1 cup all purpose flour; ¼ tsp Baking Soda; ½ cup Walnuts; ¼ cup confectioners sugar

Indulge in the delightful combination of dates and walnuts with these homemade date and nut bars. Perfectly sweetened and spiced, these bars make an excellent treat for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea or a dessert to impress your guests, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.

Photos of Date and Nut Bars Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to purchase dates, which provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Another key ingredient is shortening, which helps achieve a tender and moist bar. If you don't already have ground nutmeg or walnuts in your pantry, be sure to pick them up at the supermarket for the best flavor.

Ingredients For Date And Nut Bars

boiling water: Used to soften the dates and infuse them with moisture.

dates: Sweet and chewy, these fruit pieces are the stars of the recipe.

shortening: Provides moisture and tenderness to the bars.

white sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the flavor of the dates.

ground cinnamon: Enhances the warm, sweet flavor profile.

salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.

ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, warm spice profile.

eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.

all purpose flour: Forms the base of the bar's structure.

baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the bars rise.

walnuts: Add crunch and a nutty flavor to the bars.

confectioners sugar: Used for dusting the bars, adding a final touch of sweetness.

One reader, Cart Starkey says:

These date and nut bars are absolutely delightful! The combination of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect balance. The spices add a warm, comforting touch. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are a fantastic treat for any occasion. Highly recommend!

Cart Starkey

Techniques Required for Making Date and Nut Bars Recipe

How to pour boiling water over dates: Boil water in a kettle or pot, then carefully pour it over the dates in a bowl to soften them. How to cream together shortening and sugar: Use a mixer or a spoon to blend the shortening and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. How to sift dry ingredients: Use a sifter or a fine mesh strainer to combine and aerate the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda. How to beat eggs: Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk or use a mixer to blend them until they are smooth and slightly frothy. How to grease a baking pan: Use a small amount of shortening or butter to coat the inside of the baking pan, ensuring an even layer to prevent sticking. How to roll bars in confectioners' sugar: After cutting the bars, place them in a bowl with confectioners' sugar and gently toss or roll them until they are evenly coated.

How To Make Date and Nut Bars

Walnuts and dates create a crunchy, sticky, and delicious treat in these nut bars. The dessert is nicely spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupboiling water
2cupsdates,pitted and chopped
½cupshortening
1cupwhite sugar
⅛tspground cinnamon
¾tspsalt
⅛tspground nutmeg
1cupall purpose flour
¼tspbaking soda
½cupwalnuts,chopped
¼cupconfectioners sugar

Instructions

In a small bowl, pour boiling water over dates, and set aside to cool. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a 10×10 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, cream together the shortening and white sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
Add the dates, including any water; mix well. Sift together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda; stir into the date mixture. Then stir in the nuts.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 10×10 inch pan, and bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
When cool, cut into bars, and roll each bar in confectioners’ sugar.

Nutrition

Calories: 303.05kcal
Fat: 9.50g
Saturated Fat: 2.39g
Trans Fat: 1.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.66g
Carbohydrates: 55.33g
Fiber: 2.82g
Sugar: 44.07g
Protein: 2.68g
Cholesterol: 26.66mg
Sodium: 183.29mg
Calcium: 30.72mg
Potassium: 283.38mg
Iron: 0.97mg
Vitamin A: 14.10µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Date and Nut Bars Recipe

When creaming together the shortening and white sugar, ensure that the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture for your date and nut bars. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes to achieve the best results.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Date and Nut Bars

Pre-soak dates: Soak dates in boiling water the night before to save time on the day of baking.

Use a food processor: Chop walnuts and mix dates quickly using a food processor.

Measure ingredients ahead: Measure and set aside all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.

Preheat oven early: Preheat the oven while preparing the mixture to avoid waiting time.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and freeze extra bars for future use.

Substitute Ingredients For Date and Nut Bars Recipe

boiling water - Substitute with hot apple juice: Adds a hint of sweetness and complementary flavor.
dates - Substitute with dried figs: Similar texture and natural sweetness.
shortening - Substitute with coconut oil: Provides a similar fat content and a subtle coconut flavor.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: A lower glycemic index and a slight caramel flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground allspice: Offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a similar salty taste with additional minerals.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground mace: A similar warm, nutty flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: A vegan alternative that provides binding properties.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds more fiber and nutrients.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount to achieve a similar leavening effect.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Similar texture and a slightly sweeter taste.
confectioners sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: A healthier alternative with a similar texture.

Presenting Date and Nut Bars for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the date and nut bars into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined and sophisticated presentation.
Use a stylish plate: Select a sleek, modern plate with a neutral color to make the date and nut bars stand out visually.
Add a dusting of confectioners' sugar: Lightly dust the top of each bar with confectioners' sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance and sweetness.
Incorporate a garnish: Place a small sprig of fresh mint or a few whole walnuts on the plate to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with a complementary sauce: Create a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce or dark chocolate ganache on the plate to enhance the flavor profile and add visual interest.
Use a decorative element: Add a small edible flower or a thin slice of dried date as a decorative element to elevate the overall presentation.
Serve with a side: Pair the date and nut bars with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a balanced and indulgent dessert experience.

Essential Tools for Making Date and Nut Bars

Small bowl: For soaking the dates in boiling water to soften them.
Boiling water kettle: To boil water for soaking the dates.
Medium bowl: For creaming together the shortening and white sugar, and mixing the other ingredients.
Electric mixer: To cream the shortening and sugar, and to beat in the eggs.
Sifter: For sifting together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda.
Spatula: To stir the date mixture and fold in the nuts.
10x10 inch baking pan: To bake the date and nut mixture.
Oven: Preheated to 325 degrees F for baking the bars.
Cooling rack: To cool the baked bars before cutting.
Knife: To cut the cooled mixture into bars.
Confectioners' sugar sifter: To evenly coat the bars with confectioners' sugar.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Measuring spoons: For measuring small quantities of ingredients like cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and baking soda.

Storing and Freezing Date and Nut Bars

Once the date and nut bars have cooled completely, cut them into your desired size and shape.
Place the bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The bars will keep at room temperature for up to 1 week.
If you want to store the bars for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring there are no air pockets.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the date and nut bars for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen bars, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or until they reach your desired consistency.
If you prefer, you can also thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, consume the bars within 3-4 days for the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Date and Nut Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover date and nut bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will restore the bars' texture and bring out the flavors of the nuts and dates.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the date and nut bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the bars to become soggy. If you find the bars too soft after microwaving, you can place them under the broiler for a minute or two to crisp up the edges.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover date and nut bars. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method will give you a texture similar to freshly baked bars.
For a unique twist, try slicing the leftover date and nut bars into bite-sized pieces and warming them in a skillet with a little butter or coconut oil. Stir gently until the bars are heated through and slightly crispy. Serve the warm, buttery bites with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the leftover date and nut bars in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. The foil will help prevent the bars from drying out while reheating, resulting in a softer, more tender texture.

Surprising Facts About Date and Nut Bars

A unique aspect of this date and nut bars recipe is the use of boiling water to soften the dates, which helps to create a moist and flavorful base. This technique enhances the natural sweetness of the dates and ensures they blend seamlessly into the batter.

Is Making Date and Nut Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

The date and nut bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like dates, walnuts, and basic pantry staples such as flour, sugar, and eggs are relatively inexpensive and widely available. Given the simplicity and the use of common ingredients, the overall cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $10-$12 USD. The recipe yields a generous amount of bars, making it a budget-friendly option for a sweet treat. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Date and Nut Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

The date and nut bars recipe, while containing some nutritious ingredients like dates and walnuts, is overall an unhealthy treat due to several factors:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for a full cup of white sugar, which is a significant amount of added sugar. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugar can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Use of shortening: Shortening is a type of solid fat that is high in saturated and trans fats, both of which are detrimental to heart health when consumed in excess.
Refined flour: All-purpose flour is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain flours.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of white sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with using more dates as a natural sweetener, as they are high in fiber and nutrients.
Replace the shortening with a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or grass-fed butter. These options contain healthier fatty acid profiles and can provide additional health benefits.
Swap the all-purpose flour with a whole grain alternative, such as whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour. This will increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients to the bars.
Increase the amount of walnuts or add other nutrient-dense ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or dried fruits to boost the overall nutritional value of the bars.

Editor's Opinion on the Date and Nut Bars Recipe

This date and nut bars recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for a cozy treat. The use of dates soaked in boiling water ensures a moist texture, while the combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic depth. The walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, complementing the soft dates. Rolling the cooled bars in confectioners' sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness. However, consider reducing the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bar. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful recipe that's sure to please.

Enhance Your Date and Nut Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the creamy, velvety texture of roasted butternut squash soup as it warms your soul. The subtle sweetness of the squash pairs harmoniously with the rich, nutty flavors of the date and nut bars. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch, making each spoonful a symphony of textures and tastes.

Grilled Chicken Salad: Picture a vibrant grilled chicken salad with a medley of fresh greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers. The smoky, charred notes of the grilled chicken contrast beautifully with the sweet, chewy dates in the bars. A light citrus vinaigrette ties it all together, creating a refreshing and balanced meal.

Spiced Apple Compote: Envision a warm, fragrant spiced apple compote served alongside your date and nut bars. The tender, caramelized apples infused with cinnamon and cloves complement the bars' rich flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a touch of indulgence, making this pairing a true delight.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Think of a succulent herb-crusted salmon fillet, perfectly seared to a golden brown. The aromatic herbs and the tender, flaky salmon create a savory counterpoint to the sweet, nutty bars. A side of lemon-dill sauce enhances the flavors, making this an elegant and satisfying combination.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Visualize a vibrant mango avocado salsa bursting with tropical flavors. The creamy avocado and juicy mango chunks, mixed with a hint of lime and cilantro, provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, dense date and nut bars. This pairing is a celebration of bright, fresh flavors that dance on your palate.

Delicious Alternatives to Date and Nut Bars

Oatmeal Walnut Bars: These chewy bars combine the hearty goodness of oats with the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a quick dessert or a midday snack.

Coconut Almond Squares: A delightful blend of coconut and almonds, these squares are both sweet and nutty. Ideal for those who love a tropical twist in their desserts.

Apricot Pecan Blondies: These blondies are rich and buttery, featuring the sweet tang of dried apricots and the earthy crunch of pecans. A unique take on a classic treat.

Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies: Indulge in the decadent combination of chocolate and hazelnuts. These brownies are fudgy, nutty, and utterly irresistible.

Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti: Perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, these biscotti feature the tartness of cranberries and the rich flavor of pistachios. A crunchy, satisfying treat.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Date and Nut Bars Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts into a golden, bubbly perfection. Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are finely chopped and mixed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This vibrant mixture is then spooned onto toasted baguette slices and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze. It's a simple yet elegant starter that bursts with flavor.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky char and juicy interior. Serve it alongside a vibrant quinoa salad or a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip for a complete meal that bursts with flavor and freshness.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a blend of spices. Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, this dish offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out your meal. It's a wholesome and visually appealing option that will impress your guests.

Why trust this Date and Nut Bars Recipe:

This recipe for date and nut bars is a delightful blend of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The use of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic touch, making these bars irresistibly delicious. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the simplicity and the wholesome goodness of these homemade treats.

Want to share your own twist on these delicious Date and Nut Bars? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how you make them!

FAQ:

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them roughly the same size.

Do I need to soak the dates in boiling water?

Yes, soaking the dates in boiling water helps to soften them, making them easier to blend into the batter and ensuring a moist texture in the bars.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of butter for the shortening. It might give the bars a slightly richer flavor.

How should I store the date and nut bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them or even freeze them for a couple of months.