Graham Date Bars
Sweet and chewy Graham Date Bars feature a rich coconut and date filling layered between crispy graham crackers, perfect for a nostalgic treat or a portable dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, margarine, beaten egg, and evaporated milk in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until thickened, about 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in coconut and chopped dates.
- Place a layer of whole graham crackers in a 10 1/2 x 15 1/2-inch pan.
- Pour the hot mixture over the crackers.
- Place another layer of graham crackers on top.
- Make glaze as desired and spread over the top layer of crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. If you don't have margarine, you can substitute with butter or coconut oil for a richer taste. For a nutty twist, chopped walnuts or pecans can be incorporated along with the dates. Ensure to use fresh dates for the best texture and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These Graham Date Bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack. They also make for a great dessert after a hearty meal, complementing dishes like Turkey And Rice Quiche.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Graham Date Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last for a week. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds before serving, allowing the flavors to become more pronounced.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Graham Date Bars contains roughly 1018 calories, with 12g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 dried dates?
Yes, you can use fresh dates, but they may alter the texture slightly. Dried dates are generally preferred for their sweetness and consistency in the bars. Be sure to chop them finely to integrate well into the mixture.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with regular milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. For a richer flavor, consider using cream or half-and-half, but keep in mind this may change the final consistency.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make these bars vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
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).