Grandma Ann'S Date Bars
Chewy and nutty date bars with a hint of pecans, perfect for snacking or dessert. They combine sweet dates with a tender crumb, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream egg and sugar together.
- Add milk to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add chopped dates and pecans to the dry ingredients and mix.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 20 minutes or until edges are lightly browned and center springs back.
- Allow to cool in the pan, then cut into 1 x 3-inch bars.
- Roll each bar in powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if desired. To enhance the texture, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Ensure your dates are fresh and moist; if they are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Serving Suggestions
These date bars are delicious on their own or dusted with powdered sugar. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea and make a great addition to afternoon snack platters. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a slice of Cherry Pie Crunch or as part of a dessert buffet featuring American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Ann'S Date Bars contains roughly 293 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 make these date bars vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using a non-dairy milk alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you don't have dates, you can substitute with dried figs or prunes, which will provide a similar sweetness and texture. Just make sure to chop them finely before adding to the mixture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly browned, and the center springs back when gently pressed. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
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).