Matrimonial Bars
Delicious Matrimonial Bars feature a buttery crumb topping combined with sweet, mushy dates, perfect for satisfying cravings and enjoyed as a comforting coffee treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients (ground oatmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt) together, then blend in butter as you would a pie crust.
- Put half of the crumb mixture on the bottom of a cookie sheet and press evenly.
- Bring the chopped dates, sugar, and hot water to a boil and cook until mushy.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Spread the cooked date mixture over the crumb layer.
- Add the remaining crumb mixture on top of the date layer.
- Bake in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture. If you don't have dates, dried figs or apricots can be a delicious substitute. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier blending, and if the mixture seems too dry, a tablespoon of milk can help achieve the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Matrimonial bars are delightful served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for afternoon snacks or dessert. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad, such as Mandarin-Pineapple Fruit Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover matrimonial bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Matrimonial Bars contains roughly 352 calories, with 3g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% 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 other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the sweetness and texture of the bars, but they will still create a delicious treat.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make matrimonial bars gluten-free, simply replace the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur with regular oats.
Can I freeze matrimonial bars for later use?
Absolutely! Allow the bars to cool completely, then cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.
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).