Classic Date Squares (Matrimonial Bars) – Big Traditional Recipe
Introduction
Date Squares, also known as Matrimonial Bars, are a beloved traditional dessert made with a rich, sticky date filling sandwiched between two layers of buttery crumb crust. Popular in many homes for decades, these bars are comforting, nostalgic, and perfect with tea or coffee. Their balance of sweetness, texture, and simplicity makes them a timeless favorite for family gatherings, holidays, bake sales, and everyday treats.
History
Date Squares originated in early North American home baking, especially in Canada and the United Kingdom, where dates were a common pantry ingredient. They became popular because they were economical, filling, and easy to make in large batches. The name “Matrimonial Cake” symbolized harmony—two crust layers joined together with a sweet center—making it a favorite for weddings and family celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Date Filling
- 2 cups chopped dates
- 1½ cups water
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
For the Crust and Topping
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Date Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped dates, water, and brown sugar. Cook while stirring until the dates soften and form a thick paste. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice. If you prefer a firmer filling, dissolve cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it in. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Mixture
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease or line a rectangular baking pan. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla extract and gently mix.
Step 3: Assemble
Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base. Spread the warm date filling evenly over the base. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top and gently press down without compacting too much.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Formation and Texture
The base is firm and buttery, the center is soft, rich, and jam-like, and the top crumb layer bakes to a golden, slightly crisp finish. When fully cooled, the bars hold their shape beautifully and cut cleanly.
Benefits
Dates are naturally rich in fiber, iron, potassium, and antioxidants. These bars provide long-lasting energy and are free from refined syrups when made traditionally. They are filling and satisfying, making them a great homemade alternative to store-bought sweets.
Nutrition (Approximate per square)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Tips and Variations
You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for extra crunch. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the date filling adds warmth. For a deeper flavor, use dark brown sugar.
Why People Love This Recipe
Date Squares are loved for their simplicity, homemade taste, and comforting texture. They store well, freeze beautifully, and taste even better the next day, making them a favorite passed down through generations.
Conclusion
This classic Date Squares recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Rich in history, flavor, and comfort, these bars deserve a place in every home baker’s collection. Once you try them, they are sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.