Date Pecan Bars
Chewy and sweet date pecan bars combine rich dates, crunchy pecans, and candied cherries for a delightful treat perfect for gatherings or afternoon snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix baking soda with water to form a solution.
- Add the baking soda mixture to the beaten egg and sugar mixture.
- Add vanilla and a dash of salt, then stir in chopped dates, candied cherries, and pecans. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour and mix until combined.
- Press the dough evenly into a greased jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the pecans with walnuts for a different texture. If you don't have candied cherries, dried cranberries or raisins work well too. Ensure that you press the dough firmly in the pan to achieve even baking. This recipe is similar to Icebox Pecan Cookies in texture, so if you enjoy those, you'll love these bars!
Serving Suggestions
These date pecan bars make a delightful treat for gatherings or as a dessert after dinner. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. For an added touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance their presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date pecan bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to freeze them, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Pecan Bars contains roughly 595 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 948mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 dates instead of chopped dates?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but make sure to remove the pits and chop them finely. Fresh dates are moister than dried ones, which may slightly alter the texture of the bars, making them even chewier and richer.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can replace each egg with a mixture of 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a vegan option. This substitution will add moisture and sweetness, while still allowing the bars to hold together.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!
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).