GF WALNUT DATE BARS

Umm really there are no words how yummy these bars are!  They are not a fig newton because they are sweeter but not overly sweet.  They are kind of old school and remind me of when I was little.  Why?  I have no idea really they just do... you can change the nuts and the fruit once you get the concept down.  These are simple and quick to make and oh did I say amazing!  Just make them you'll love them too!

Date Nut Bars

Crust:

2 cups certified GF oats
1 3/4 cups Jules Gluten Free Flour (regular AP if not GF)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt

Date Filling:

1 1/2 lb chopped dates
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 Tbs butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup chopped walnuts

if you want to be create here add some other fruit just becareful of water content..

Make the filling:

Boil dates, sugar, and water until thick, about 5-10 minutes.
Add 1 Tbs butter, the vanilla, and the walnuts.
Set aside to cool a bit.

Prepare the crust:

Combine all dry ingredients with the melted butter. Line pan with parchment paper (you'll appreciate this step afterward)and lightly grease. Firmly press half of the mixture into a lightly greased 13 x 9 pan.
Cover with filling mixture and tTop with remaining half of crust mixture. Press lightly.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Really, I mean it–no longer than that becuase they will dry out and you want them to be nice and soft inside. Let these cool completely and cut into squares. or triangles, I prefer bite size snacks, and store in an airtight container.