A good way to use the time you have on your hands during snacking season is to go in the kitchen and bake some treats. It’s not easy to decide where to begin, but these no-bake date squares are a delicious option. Although they may resemble chocolate squares, the use of dates gives these treats a unique flavour and texture. You may put them in tins as Christmas gifts or just snack on them as you pass the kitchen on your way to the sweets drawer.
NO-BAKE DATE SQUARES TIPS
Dates may be processed or chopped to whichever size you like. Tennis Biscuits, which are made with coconut and butter, not only give texture but also depth of flavour. A little touch of cocoa or chocolate may inspire your imagination and make all the difference. Cherry, walnut, or pecan nuts would be great additions for textural contrast. They’re perfect for a quick snack because of how yummy they are.
These no-bake date squares are perfect for the holiday season if you’re in the mood to bake. They’re simple to put together and go well with a cup of tea or coffee.
NO-BAKE DATE SQUARES RECIPE
Course: Treat
Cuisine: Global
Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
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300 g dates, pitted
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125 g butter
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Ten packet Tennis biscuits (if you want a firmer texture, then use 11/2 packets)
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¼ cup desiccated coconut
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1 tsp vanilla essence
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1 egg, lightly beaten
- Optional extras
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½ cup walnuts or pecan nuts
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½ cup glacé cherries
METHOD
- Line a 20cm square tin or dish with baking paper.
- Melt butter in a bowl or pan (at least 1 litre capacity).
- Chop dates and add to melted butter. Heat mixture gently until soft and mushy.
- Crunch and crumble the biscuits into approximately fingernail size pieces.
- Add egg and vanilla to a warm date mixture, then mix with the crushed biscuits.
- Line a 20cm square tin or dish with baking paper. Press date and biscuit mixture into the tin and refrigerate until firm (1-2 hours).
- Remove from tin and slice into 25 squares. Roll in desiccated coconut and store in the fridge. You can also slice them into 36 smaller, bite-sized pieces.