Apple Date Squares
Apple Date Squares offer a delightful combination of sweet apple filling, spicy cinnamon, and chewy dates, perfect for cozy desserts or afternoon tea gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cinnamon, and allspice in a bowl.
- Stir the dry ingredients gently to mix.
- In a separate bowl, combine eggs, apple pie filling, almond extract, oil, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped dates and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping half of the flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier version. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute. Ensure the dates are pitted and chopped finely for even distribution in the squares.
Serving Suggestions
These apple date squares are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with Mary'S Mosaic Fruit Slices for a refreshing contrast. Serve them as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack any time of the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store the apple date squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Date Squares contains roughly 530 calories, with 2g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Peel and slice about 2-3 medium apples, then sauté them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon until softened. This will create a similar flavor to the pie filling, adding a fresh twist to your squares.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free apple date squares, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with binding. Adjust baking time slightly, as gluten-free flour can vary in moisture absorption.
Can I freeze apple date squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the squares cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).