Date Cookie Bars (Soft & Chewy Filled Bars)
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dough:
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Make the Filling:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped dates and water
- Cook, stirring often, until the mixture becomes soft and paste-like (about 5–10 minutes)
- Stir in vanilla extract
- Remove from heat and let it cool
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar
- Add eggs and vanilla, and whisk until smooth
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt
- Mix until a soft dough forms
Assemble:
- Grease or line a baking pan (8×8 or 9×9 inch)
- Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom
- Spread the date filling over the dough
- Crumble or spread the remaining dough on top
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown on top
Result:
- Crispy golden top
- Soft, rich, and chewy center
- Perfect with coffee or tea