Holiday Date Nut Squares
Holiday Date Nut Squares offer a rich blend of dates, raisins, and spices, with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for festive gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer chopped dates, raisins, and prunes in water for 5 minutes.
- Stir in butter and let cool.
- Add flour, Sugar Twin, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, apple juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 325° to 350° for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with applesauce or using honey instead of Sugar Twin. You can also add chopped chocolate for an extra treat. Ensure the dates, raisins, and prunes are finely chopped for even distribution throughout the squares. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These date nut squares are delicious on their own but can also be served with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. They pair beautifully with creamy hot sauce for a unique sweet and spicy combination. Consider serving them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover date nut 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, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm or enjoy them cold for a chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Date Nut Squares contains roughly 718 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2064mg per serving (90% 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 fruit instead of dried?
Fresh fruit isn't recommended as it contains too much moisture, which can alter the texture of the squares. Stick with dried fruits like dates, raisins, and prunes to maintain the desired consistency and flavor.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free holiday date nut squares, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking soda, are gluten-free as well to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
Can I freeze the date nut squares?
Yes, you can freeze these squares! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying or heat them gently in the microwave.
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).