Date Nut Bars

24 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 30 m Total: 45 m Beginner
Be the first to rate!
Date Nut Bars
These classic date nut bars combine sweet chopped dates and crunchy walnuts in a tender, cake-like bar cookie that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you need an easy homemade treat. Simple to mix, quick to bake, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted margarine
  • 2 eggs, well beaten
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 (8 oz) package dates, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium glass bowl, mix together flour, baking powder and salt. Add sugar and mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine melted margarine and beaten eggs. Add to the flour mixture and beat until smooth. Blend in the chopped walnuts and dates.
  4. Pour batter into greased 9x9 pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until edges are golden brown and center is set.
  5. Cut into bars while still warm. Let cool completely before serving. Yields about 24 bars.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my date nut bars dry?

A: Make sure you're measuring the flour correctly (spoon and level, don't pack) and don't overbake. The bars should still look slightly soft in the center when you take them out, as they'll continue cooking from residual heat.

Q: Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

A: Absolutely! Pecans are a natural Southern substitute and work beautifully. You can also try a mix of nuts for variety.

Q: Why do I need to cut them while warm?

A: The dates make these bars sticky, and cutting while warm gives you cleaner cuts. If you wait until they're completely cool, they become more difficult to slice neatly.

Tips and Techniques

Chop the dates with a knife that’s been lightly oiled or sprayed with cooking spray—they won’t stick to the blade as much. For even easier prep, many stores sell pre-chopped dates that work perfectly in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • walnuts: pecans or almonds
  • margarine: butter
  • dates: dried figs or dried apricots, chopped

Equipment Needed

  • 9x9 inch baking pan
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric mixer

Historical Context

Date nut bars have been a staple of Southern baking since dates became widely available in grocery stores in the early 1900s. They were especially popular during the holidays and became a common Christmas cookie exchange item throughout the South.