Gramma's Date Squares

Gramma's Date Squares

1 1/2 c. rolled oats
1 1/2 c. sifted pastry flour
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1 c. packed brown sugar
3/4 c. butter, softened
3/4 lb. pitted dated, diced
1 c. water
1/3 c. packed brown sugar
1 tsp. lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350.

In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, salt, 1 cup brown sugar and baking soda. Mix in the butter until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch square pan.

In small saucepan over medium heat, combine the dates, water and 1/3 c. brown sugar. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.  Spread the filling over the base. Then, pat the remaining crumb mixture on top.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in preheated oven, or until top is lightly toasted.  Cool completely before cutting into squares.